HR Director/ Head of HR Business Partners

Big Fish Recruitment; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking a Head of HR & Operations in Dubai. The role involves shaping and executing HR strategy, leading a team of HR professionals, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Candidates must have extensive HR experience, including leadership roles and a solid understanding of UAE labour laws. This position offers a dynamic work environment focused on a high-performance culture.

Qualifications

• 12–15 years of progressive HR experience.
• At least 8 years in a leadership role.
• Strong background in real estate or large-scale development projects.

Responsibilities

• Drive HR strategy across business units.
• Lead HR functional areas like Learning & Development.
• Partner with senior leadership to provide strategic HR guidance.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder Management

HR Operations

Talent Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR or Business Administration

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Overview

The Role Job Title: Head of HR & Operations. Reports To: Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Location: Dubai, UAE. Role Overview: The HR Director / Head of HR Business Partners (HRBP) supports the CHRO in shaping and executing the HR strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives. This role oversees all core HR functions, leads a team of HR professionals, and ensures delivery of a high-performance, people-focused culture across the organization.

Responsibilities

• Act as deputy to the CHRO, driving HR strategy across business units.
• Lead functional areas including HR Business Partners, Learning & Development, Talent Acquisition, Rewards, and HR Operations.
• Partner with senior leadership to provide strategic HR guidance that supports organizational goals.
• Drive workforce planning, succession management, and leadership development initiatives.
• Oversee implementation of employee engagement, performance management, and culture programs.
• Ensure compliance with UAE labour laws and HR best practices.
• Monitor and analyze HR metrics to inform decision-making.
• Manage HR budgets and resource planning.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 12–15 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 8 years in a leadership role.
• Strong background in real estate, construction, or large-scale development projects preferred.
• 10+ years of L&D experience, with strong track record in leadership development, talent management, and organizational learning.
• Proven expertise in HR operations, talent management, and organizational development.
• Excellent knowledge of UAE labour law and HR compliance.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

About the company

Service: Our aim is to provide our clients and candidates with a consistent, quality service that goes beyond the norm, giving them peace of mind and complete trust in our ability to meet their needs.

Knowledge: Big Fish consultants specialise in their fields and have extensive experience in the region and beyond. We take pride in our knowledge and network and believe that our relationships are built on trust and integrity and are made for the long term.

Care: At Big Fish, as well as caring for the people we work with, we also care about the world and environment we live in, that’s why Big Fish support initiatives that promote human welfare, environmental protection and sustainability.