Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Professional Development
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Idah Mugabi-Ogoso

Nairobi

Summary

Dynamic, versatile, and accomplished Human Resources professional with significant experience and success in global HR operational management, strategy development, policy design, information management and performance assessment. A recognised expert in compensation and benefits. Recruits, develops, and mentors top-performing teams while optimising employee engagement, morale, and loyalty. Recognised as valued leader, advisor and contributor to Management and staff.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Head of Human Resources

CENTRE (ICRAF) and CENTRE for INTERNATIONAL FORESTRY RESEARCH (CIFOR)
01.2019 - Current
  • As the Head of Human Resources, in liaison with CIFOR HR Team lead, led the alignment of CIFOR and ICRAF Human Resources policies and procedures
  • Ensured that these are in-line with the functional effective merger goals, CIFOR-ICRAF strategy goals and objectives
  • Aligned the 2 HR teams into one team ensuring effective service delivery to all CIFOR-ICRAF staff in all locations
  • As well as providing guidance to Team leads during respective team alignment
  • Developed aligned compensation and benefits structure with minimal cost implication
  • Socilaised all the aligned policies and procedures to CIFOR-ICRAF staff
  • Currently serve on the CIFOR-ICRAF management team and a secretary to the People and Change management board committee
  • A member of CIFOR-ICRAF COVID-19 TaskForce.
  • Implemented succession planning initiatives, promoting long-term stability in key leadership positions.
  • Established strong relationships with key stakeholders to ensure alignment of HR goals with business objectives.
  • Implemented effective performance management systems for ongoing employee development and growth.
  • Conducted thorough workforce analyses to identify areas of improvement and develop targeted solutions.
  • Managed annual budgeting process for the human resources department, ensuring sufficient allocation of resources towards strategic initiatives.
  • Managed complex employee relations issues, resulting in improved workplace harmony and satisfaction.
  • Streamlined recruitment processes for increased efficiency and reduced time-to-fill rates.
  • Reduced turnover rates by cultivating a positive work culture and addressing employee concerns proactively.
  • Evaluated training needs across the organization, developing customized learning plans to address skill gaps or competency deficiencies.
  • Designed effective retention strategies by analyzing exit interviews and other relevant data sources.
  • Championed diversity and inclusion efforts, fostering a more inclusive workplace environment.
  • Collaborated with legal counsel on employment law matters, mitigating risks associated with non-compliance or litigation.
  • Oversaw benefits administration, optimizing offerings while controlling overall costs.
  • Developed comprehensive onboarding programs to improve new hire retention and productivity.
  • Enhanced employee engagement by implementing innovative HR programs and initiatives.
  • Led talent acquisition teams in identifying top-tier candidates for critical organizational roles.
  • Negotiated competitive compensation packages, ensuring market competitiveness and employee satisfaction.
  • Spearheaded leadership development programs, cultivating future organizational leaders from within the company ranks.
  • Maintained current knowledge of industry regulations and legislation to amend policies and promote compliance.
  • Identified and implemented appropriate strategies to increase employee satisfaction and retention.
  • Updated training processes by reviewing existing documentation, leveraging feedback from associates and working with legal and compliance teams.
  • Worked with managers to achieve compliance with organizational policies, providing clarifying information and recommending necessary changes.
  • Recruited top talent to maximize profitability.
  • Enhanced team workflows and employee job satisfaction by coordinating communication between managers and employees.
  • Facilitated successful policy implementation and enforcement to maintain legal and operational compliance.
  • Distributed employee engagement surveys to identify areas of improvement.
  • Structured compensation and benefits according to market conditions and budget demands.
  • Utilized compliance tools, corrective actions and identification of deficiencies to mitigate audit risks.
  • Collaborated with legal and compliance teams to review paperwork, obtain feedback, and procure available information for new training processes.
  • Discovered and resolved complex employee issues that affected management and business decisions.

Head of Human Resources

INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR RESEAAGROFORESTRY (ICRAF)
01.2011 - 01.2018
  • Supervise Global Human Resources Unit covering 35 countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America; provide effective and efficient HR services including strategy development and policy design
  • Ensure robust systems and responsive practices are in line with HR best practices and overall strategy to support ICRAF Research Agenda and core values
  • Interpret and deliver personnel programs and policies; measure and improve HR management practices to ensure all employees across ICRAF receive equitable treatment
  • Develop benefits and compensation packages
  • Prepare the ICRAF G&D diagnosis for management’s decision making; liaise with line managers to implement and promote ICRAF G&D goals
  • Implement HR database (with access for all regions); establish software use for automating Centre’s activities, query and report design and payroll
  • Forge effective communications channels for Centre and regional offices
  • Provide HR support to hosted institutions at all ICRAF locations
  • Design and ensure appropriate guidance for resolution of staff concerns
  • Construct teams of motivated, satisfied and productive employees
  • Participate in overall management of Centre by providing advice on change management and HR staff issues.
  • Implemented succession planning initiatives, promoting long-term stability in key leadership positions.
  • Established strong relationships with key stakeholders to ensure alignment of HR goals with business objectives.

Human Resources Specialist

WORLD AGROFORESTRY CENTRE (ICRAF)
01.2009 - 01.2010
  • Implemented, analysed, and managed staff training/development, performance management, information systems, and compensation and benefits in accordance with best practices and organisational policies
  • Oversaw job evaluation process and graded new positions; developed guidelines and procedures for compensation and benefits
  • Coordinated salary and benefits surveys; performed competence profiling
  • Managed insurance and medical processes with AIARC and GENERALI procedures
  • Led implementation of HR database (with access for all regions); established software use for automating Centre’s activities, query and report design and payroll
  • Collaborated with Head of HRU and team leaders to identify learning and development needs based on ICRAF strategy
  • Developed staff training and development plan for the Centre.
  • Maintained personnel records and statistical data to establish accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations.
  • Managed benefits administration for company-wide staff, ensuring timely processing and accurate recordkeeping.
  • Conducted routine HR audits to ensure data accuracy in personnel files, payroll records, and benefit enrollments.
  • Ensured compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws through regular audits and policy updates.
  • Fielded employee inquiries related to insurance, pension plan, vacation, sick leave and employee assistance.
  • Enhanced employee satisfaction by implementing streamlined HR policies and procedures.
  • Led open enrollment periods for health insurance coverage options, assisting employees in making informed decisions regarding their benefits selections.
  • Provided support during organizational restructuring efforts, minimizing disruptions to daily operations while ensuring fair treatment of affected employees.
  • Implemented employee recognition programs, fostering a positive work environment and increased retention rates.
  • Collaborated with department managers to identify staffing needs and create strategic recruiting plans.
  • Reduced turnover rates by conducting thorough exit interviews and addressing employees'' concerns.
  • Performed budget analysis to control expenditures and predict future budget needs.
  • Negotiated competitive compensation packages with prospective hires, attracting top talent to the organization.
  • Collaborated with managers to identify and address employee relations issues.
  • Improved organizational filing systems for confidential employee records, resulting in improved accessibility and efficiency.
  • Created and delivered HR training sessions to staff, managers and executives.
  • Developed and monitored employee recognition programs.
  • Reduced expenses by analyzing compensation policies and implementing competitive programs while ensuring adherence to legal requirements.

Human Resources Manager

FOUNDATION FOR INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE
01.2007 - 01.2009
  • Oversaw all human resources systems and procedures including recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, conflict resolution, and compensation/rewards management; ensured compliance with governing regulations
  • Developed and implemented multiple HR strategies, policies, and procedures
  • Advised Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and management team on most appropriate human resource strategies to accommodate business needs.
  • Managed employee relations issues professionally, resolving conflicts efficiently while maintaining confidentiality at all times.
  • Maintained accurate HR records in compliance with applicable laws, ensuring efficient data retrieval when required.
  • Conducted thorough internal investigations, addressing employee concerns with fairness and transparency.
  • Maintained payroll and benefits for employees in various locations, minimizing financial discrepancies through detailed program management.
  • Maintained human resources regulatory compliance with local, state and federal laws.
  • Streamlined HR processes for increased efficiency, reducing paperwork and manual tasks through automation.
  • Collaborated with executive leadership to align HR initiatives with overall business goals and objectives.
  • Maintained company compliance with local, state, and federal laws, in addition to established organizational standards.
  • Maintained payroll and benefits for employees in various locations and diminished financial discrepancies through expert program management.
  • Managed complex benefits administration, ensuring accurate enrollment and timely processing of claims.
  • Organized and led staff orientation programs and training to promote collaboration.
  • Facilitated onboarding sessions and on-the-job training for new hires bolstering position knowledge and skillset.
  • Coordinated employee grievances and disputes in timely and professional manner by finding constructive solutions.
  • Provided expert guidance on labor laws and regulations, mitigating legal risks for the organization.
  • Regularly analyzed workforce trends to proactively address potential skill gaps or staffing needs.
  • Processed employee claims involving performance issues and harassment.
  • Implemented customized performance management systems, providing ongoing feedback and development opportunities for employees.
  • Facilitated open communication channels between employees and management by conducting regular town hall meetings or roundtable discussions.
  • Enhanced employee retention by implementing effective talent management strategies and fostering a positive work environment.
  • Coordinated company-wide training programs to enhance workforce skills and promote professional growth.
  • Promoted diversity and inclusion within the workplace by initiating targeted training programs and implementing inclusive hiring practices.
  • Worked with managers to achieve compliance with organizational policies, providing clarifying information and recommending necessary changes.
  • Facilitated successful policy implementation and enforcement to maintain legal and operational compliance.
  • Instructed senior leaders on appropriate employee corrective steps.
  • Created and implemented forward-thinking initiatives to improve employee engagement.
  • Structured compensation and benefits according to market conditions and budget demands.
  • Maintained current knowledge of industry regulations and legislation to amend policies and promote compliance.
  • Fostered positive work environment through comprehensive employee relations program.

Education

Master of Business Administration (Human Resources) -

Makerere University

Bachelor of Arts, Social Sciences (Social Administration and Economics) -

Makerere University

Diploma in Education, History and Geography -

Kyambogo University

Skills

  • HR Operations
  • Strategy Development & Implementation
  • Policy & Procedures Development
  • HR Information Management
  • Rewards Management
  • Staff Development & Motivation
  • Compensation/Benefits
  • Recruitment
  • Organizational Skills
  • Performance Management
  • Conflict Resolution
  • HR policies development
  • Performance Appraisals
  • Organizational Culture
  • Diversity and Inclusion
  • Problem-Solving
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Time Management
  • Attention to Detail

Professional Development

  • Fraud Risk Awareness and Management, AMC International, 2014
  • Certified Human Resources Manager (CHRM), International Academy of Financial Management (IAFM), 2013
  • Evaluation and Impact Assessment (EIA) of Learning and Training, UN System Staff College (in collaboration with ROI Institute), Nairobi, 2010
  • Women’s Leadership Course, CGIAR Gender & Diversity Program, Philippines, 2009
  • The Strategic Human Resource Management Course, Uganda Management Institute, Kampala, Uganda, 2003

Certification


Uganda Human Resources Managers Association

  • SHRM-CP - SHRM Certified Professional

Timeline

Head of Human Resources

CENTRE (ICRAF) and CENTRE for INTERNATIONAL FORESTRY RESEARCH (CIFOR)
01.2019 - Current

Head of Human Resources

INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR RESEAAGROFORESTRY (ICRAF)
01.2011 - 01.2018

Human Resources Specialist

WORLD AGROFORESTRY CENTRE (ICRAF)
01.2009 - 01.2010

Human Resources Manager

FOUNDATION FOR INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE
01.2007 - 01.2009

Master of Business Administration (Human Resources) -

Makerere University

Bachelor of Arts, Social Sciences (Social Administration and Economics) -

Makerere University

Diploma in Education, History and Geography -

Kyambogo University
Idah Mugabi-Ogoso