Senior HR & Administration Manager

KF; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contracting organization in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced HR Manager to lead and manage HR and Administration functions. The role involves developing HR strategies, managing recruitment and talent processes, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. The ideal candidate will have extensive HR experience, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of UAE labor regulations. This position offers a unique opportunity to drive HR digital transformation and enhance employee experience in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 15 years of HR experience including 5 years in a managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of UAE labor laws and HR best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and talent management processes.
• Ensure compliance with UAE labor laws and company policies.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR or Business Administration

Master's degree (preferred)

Professional HR certification (CIPD, SHRM)

Tools

Digital tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Client

Our client is a leading contracting organization headquartered in Abu Dhabi delivering large-scale civil and infrastructure projects across the UAE. Operating under a global holding structure the company is recognized for its financial discipline transparency and strong project governance.

Role Overview

The role requires someone to lead and manage the HR and Administration functions to ensure effective people management compliance with labor laws and smooth administrative operations that support organizational goals. Additionally we are looking for a forward-thinking leader who can champion HR digital transformation enhance employee experience and ensure compliance in a dynamic business environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee recruitment onboarding and talent management processes.
• Manage compensation benefits and payroll administration.
• Ensure compliance with UAE labor laws and company policies.
• Drive employee engagement performance management and training initiatives.
• Supervise administrative operations including office management facilities and vendor coordination.
• Prepare HR reports and provide insights to senior leadership.
• Lead and mentor HR and admin team members.

Job Requirements

• Bachelors degree in HR Business Administration or related field; Masters preferred.
• Professional HR certification (CIPD SHRM or equivalent) is an advantage.
• 15 years of HR experience including 5 years in a managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of UAE labor laws and HR best practices.
• Excellent leadership communication and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in digital tools and ERP systems.
• Adaptability to change and ability to work in dynamic environments.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Ability to lead process improvements and drive efficiency.

Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates and will refer candidates without regard to race color religion national origin sex age disability veteran status or any other legally protected basis.

Required Experience

Manager