Development Director jobs in United Arab Emirates

Job description:

Job Purpose

To lead the design and execution of centralized OD strategies, frameworks, and programs that build organizational capability, ensure talent continuity, and foster a high-performance and value-driven culture.

The role partners with HR Business Partners (HRBPs), Hub HR teams, and Learning & Development (L&D) to implement integrated approaches across performance management, leadership & talent development, succession planning, EVP, engagement, recognition and HR Policy.

• Lead OD change initiatives, enabling smooth transitions and stakeholder buy-in through effective communication and change management strategies.
• Develop, drive & continuously evolve OD frameworks, policies, and tools that support enterprise-wide capability building, leadership & high-potential development, and long-term talent planning.
• Partner with HRBPs and Hub HR teams to ensure consistent application and localization of OD frameworks and initiatives.
• Develop and maintain a consistent, compliant, and agile HR policy framework that supports business needs and employee experience.
• Drive the enhancement of performance management frameworks and tools, promoting a culture of continuous feedback, accountability, and growth.
• Collaborate with HRBP & L&D to design and execute leadership development programs, integrating assessments, competency models, and development planning.
• Drive talent reviews, career pathing models, and succession pipelines across functions, ensuring a consistent and future-ready talent strategy.
• Define and continuously evolve the EVP to attract, retain, and engage talent in alignment with business goals and workforce expectations.
• Design and implement employee engagement strategies, recognition schemes, and pulse feedback mechanisms to foster a high-performance culture.
• Design & implement employee recognition programs & adapt them based on employee feedback and organizational needs.
• Embed a culture of continuous improvement by conducting process audits, benchmarking best practices, and establishing feedback loops.
• Serve as the subject matter expert on all matters related to OD programs, provide guidance and support to HR team members.
• Prepare and present analytical reports and proposals to senior leadership for decision-making.
• Ensures people’s management responsibilities are handled effectively in line with company procedures.

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, or related field. Master's degree preferred.

• 10+ years of related HR experience, of which at least 3 years in senior or lead role, with a strong focus on similar OD initiatives.
• Proven ability to lead large-scale OD initiatives in a centralized or matrixed organization.
• Excellent communication abilities.
• Proficient in MS Office. Digitally Savvy.
• Experience with assessments, performance and talent systems/tools, cultural transformation, and change enablement.