The State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) is a sovereign wealth fund established in 1999 to manage and safeguard Azerbaijan's oil and gas revenues for the benefit of present and future generations. SOFAZ plays a key role in preserving national wealth, ensuring intergenerational equity, and promoting sustainable economic development.

The organization manages an investment portfolio comprising equities, fixed-income securities, real estate, and other financial instruments. All investment decisions are guided by a long-term strategic approach aimed at ensuring financial sustainability and contributing to the country's economic stability.

The Lead HR Specialist (Performance Management) is responsible for overseeing the evaluation of employee performance within the organization, as well as ensuring the effective implementation and continuous improvement of the rules and procedures applied within the performance management framework. The role is also accountable for ensuring that organizational objectives are properly communicated to each employee and department, and that the compensation and benefits system remain fair and competitive.

What will you do?

• Develop the organization’s performance management strategy, policies, and procedures, and ensure their effective implementation.
• Coordinate all stages of the performance cycle — including goal setting, mid-year reviews, and annual appraisals — in a timely and consistent manner.
• Ensure the preparation of performance appraisal forms and methodological documents.
• Ensure that individual and departmental goals are aligned with the organization’s strategic objectives.
• Manage the process of defining, agreeing, and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) at both individual and business unit level.
• Ensure that targets comply with SMART principles and are results-oriented.
• Conduct job analysis and manage the process of establishing salary scales.
• Regularly review and improve compensation programs ensure that all salary changes and promotions are executed accurately and on time.
• Develop, optimize, and regularly update compensation and benefits procedures.
• Conduct research and analysis on benefits systems, programmers, and policies.
• Monitor and analyze compensation trends in the labour market.
• Develop rewards and bonus models to increase employee motivation and performance.
• Prepare and maintain HR dashboards and reports on performance indicators, compensation data, and workforce information using Excel, Power BI, or similar analytical tools.
• Submit regular reports to management on the status and effectiveness of the performance cycle.
• Carry out other tasks and responsibilities in line with the activities of the Human Resources Department.

What will you need?

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field.
• Professional HR certification (CIPD, SHRM-CP/SCP) is an advantage.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in performance management and compensation & benefits.
• Practical experience in building and implementing performance management systems in medium to large-scale structured organizations.
• Knowledge of job evaluation methodologies (best practice) is an advantage.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; knowledge of Power BI or other data visualization tools is an advantage.
• Ability to translate complex data into clear and actionable insights.
• Fluent written and verbal communication skills in Azerbaijani and English.

Who are we looking for?

The successful candidate is a professional who approaches processes systematically, can analyze data and draw practical conclusions, works effectively within a team, shows initiative when required, and communicates ideas clearly and concisely.

Are you interested?

If you would like to develop your career as part of a strong team, please apply through our recruitment system using the link below.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis during the announcement period. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Application deadline: April 20, 2026