Talent Acquisition Specialist

Who we are & What do we believe?

The International Council of Peace and Security (ICPS) is an independent international NGO based in Geneva, committed to building a safer, more peaceful world for all. We believe that peace is not just the responsibility of governments and institutions—it is a shared effort, where every individual has a role to play. Our mission is to bridge research and action, providing expert analysis on global security challenges while fostering diplomatic dialogue between individuals, policymakers, and international institutions. Through our 12 specialised research disciplines, we analyse conflicts, assess emerging threats, and provide the public with knowledge to better understand global security challenges. We publish policy recommendations for governments and international bodies, advocating for peaceful solutions, humanitarian protection, and security strategies that prioritise human rights and the safety of all people.

At ICPS, we believe that peace is a collective effort and we work for humanity. Our work is driven by experts, researchers, and engaged individuals from diverse backgrounds who contribute to meaningful discussions and solutions. Whether through research, policy guidance, or public engagement, we strive to create a space where everyone can play a role in shaping a more secure and peaceful world.

Wherever you are, whoever you are !

We believe that the internet is one of the greatest resources humanity has achieved, giving us the opportunity to exceed our physical boundaries. ICPS welcomes all; regardless of gender, ethnicity, and age. We embrace diversity and as an international NGO with more than 39 different nationalities, our aim is to support diversity within our teams and allow people all around the world to have the opportunity to join and contribute and grow in their fields of interest.

About the Position

ICPS is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Talent Acquisition Specialist to play a pivotal role in identifying and securing top-tier executive talent for the organisation. This key position is instrumental in supporting ICPS’s mission and long-term vision by executing elite headhunting strategies and engaging with the most exceptional candidates for chief and director-level positions. Working as part of a high-performing talent acquisition team, they will be responsible for conducting targeted research, sourcing, and initial candidate engagement, ensuring a seamless and highly professional recruitment process. Operating at the forefront of executive recruitment, they shall apply expert methodologies in candidate evaluation, ensuring rigorous selection criteria and strategic alignment with ICPS’s leadership needs. While directly handling candidate outreach and initial assessments, they will work closely with senior leadership to uphold the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism.

This role requires exceptional research skills, deep expertise in executive search, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, results-driven environment, as well as ability to work on Saturdays with flexible shifts as needed. The Talent Acquisition Specialist will also maintain recruitment databases, track key hiring metrics, and report to the Talent Acquisition Manager to refine and enhance headhunting strategies. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a specialised recruitment team at an internationally recognised nongovernmental organisation, shaping the future of leadership at ICPS. We are seeking a detail-oriented and driven professional with a proven ability to engage top executive talent, a passion for strategic recruitment, and the commitment to delivering excellence in every stage of the hiring process.

Key ResponsibilitiesExecutive Talent Acquisition Execution

• Utilise advanced headhunting methodologies to identify and engage high-caliber executive candidates. Conduct market research, talent mapping, and direct sourcing to build a strong pipeline of leadership talent. Support the execution of recruitment campaigns, ensuring alignment with ICPS’s strategic workforce needs and long-term organisational goals.

Candidate Engagement and Recruitment Support

• Manage the full-cycle recruitment process for executive-level roles, including candidate outreach, initial screening, and coordination of assessments. Ensure a seamless and highly professional candidate experience, maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality and discretion. Provide insights on talent trends and collaborate closely with senior recruiters to refine search strategies.

Candidate Evaluation and Selection Support

• Apply best-in-class evaluation methodologies to assess executive-level candidates. Conduct structured competency-based screenings, ensuring alignment with ICPS’s mission, values, and leadership criteria. Maintain accurate and thorough documentation of candidate assessments, ensuring data-driven decision-making in the selection process.

Skills and Competencies RequiredExecutive Recruitment and Headhunting Expertise

• Strong experience in high-level talent acquisition, with a deep understanding of sourcing, talent mapping, and executive search best practices. Ability to identify, engage, and assess top-tier leadership talent using innovative search techniques and market intelligence.

Strategic Talent Sourcing and Relationship Management

• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with executive candidates, ensuring a strong talent pipeline. Exceptional research skills, with the ability to gather market insights and provide strategic input on sourcing approaches.

Candidate Assessment and Selection Support

• Expertise in conducting structured candidate evaluations, ensuring a rigorous and objective selection process. Knowledge of executive hiring trends and assessment techniques, supporting the identification of transformative leadership talent.

Qualifications

• A master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, International Relations, Psychology, or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in talent acquisition, recruitment, or executive search, with at least 2 years specializing in senior or executive-level hiring, ideally but not limited within an IO, INGO, NGO.
• Demonstrated expertise in sourcing, engaging, and assessing executive-level candidates using advanced recruitment methodologies, talent mapping, and market intelligence.
• In-depth understanding of HR best practices in global and cross-cultural environments.
• Fluency in English is required.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to build relationships with senior leadership, employees, volunteers, and external stakeholders.
• Comfortable with part-time commitment, contributing 8–10 hours (20%) per week, ability to work every other Saturday with flexible shifts as needed.
• A motivational and empathetic leadership style, with a commitment to fostering inclusivity, integrity, and excellence. Strong interpersonal skills to inspire trust and credibility within the organization.

What We Offer

• An opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic, mission driven organisation that contributes to international peace and security.
• An online certificate with an international serial number after completing one year at ICPS.
• Access to ICPS's Executive Education Certificate Program, which includes six courses totaling 64 hours, specifically tailored for your role, with international certification.
• Access to a global network of seasoned professionals and consultants, offering tailored support to help you grow, excel, and advance in your area of expertise.
• We promise you a green world, a new feature. Join a fully net-zero carbon emission organisation committed to supporting a greener world.
• Flexible working hours based on project deadlines.
• The chance to be part of our volunteer organisation, contributing to ICPS's humanitarian mission to promote international security and peace for all.
• Possibility of contract renewal with advancement at your field at the end of your 1 year according to evaluation of the ICPS Board.
• The opportunity to work remotely, providing flexibility and the ability to balance your work with other commitments.
• The chance to work with a diverse team of individuals from around the world, supporting the organisation's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Being credited with your name, picture and also being credited in the '' Team '' section.
• Training sessions from our valuable and well-experienced team members.
• Being part of our volunteer-based organisation, and the satisfaction of contributing and making a positive impact to the world.

ICPS is an equal opportunity provider. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, familial status and other legally protected characteristics.