Employee Relations Manager jobs in United Arab Emirates

General Purpose

The Employee Relations Manager is responsible for fostering a positive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace by leading the organization’s employee relations strategy. This role ensures compliance with labor laws, resolves workplace concerns with fairness and transparency, and promotes consistent application of people policies. The Manager leads a team of Employee Relations Specialists and collaborates closely with HR Business Partners and cross-functional teams to support employee engagement, mitigate risk, and uphold the organization’s values

Essential Duties & Tasks

• Develop and implement a comprehensive employee relations strategy aligned with organizational goals and legal standards. Monitor trends and proactively address areas of concern
• Partner with HR leadership, legal, and business leaders to ensure consistent interpretation and application of people policies and procedures
• Lead and mentor the Employee Relations team, ensuring accurate documentation, confidentiality, and compliance in all case management activities
• Oversee disciplinary processes and investigations, ensuring fair, thorough, and impartial handling of complex employee matters
• Manage escalated employee relations issues, including performance improvement plans and workplace conflicts
• Address employee complaints and grievances in a timely and equitable manner, acting as a trusted advocate for fair treatment
• Advise Directors and managers on performance management, disciplinary actions, and dispute resolution strategies
• Drive initiatives that enhance employee engagement, including feedback mechanisms, surveys, recognition programs, and wellbeing efforts
• Ensure adherence to labor laws and internal policies. Support internal audits and policy enforcement
• Design and deliver employee relations training for managers and HR teams, including onboarding sessions on people policies
• Track key metrics such as grievance reduction, employee turnover, engagement scores, and team efficiency to evaluate the impact of ER strategies
• Lead and implement programs that strengthen employee relations and support organizational transformation
  
  

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management or related field required; Master’s degree preferred
• SHRM or CIPD certifications preferred
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Power BI; experience with Oracle HCM preferred
• 8–12 years of relevant experience, including 6 years in employee relations or a related HR function
• Demonstrates advanced proficiency in labor law application, conflict management, and performance management to support fair, compliant, and high-performing workplace practices
• Shared or indirect influence over budget decisions
• Proficient to expert-level communication and influence across departments
• Ability to manage sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism