Hr Generalist jobs in United Arab Emirates

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, Thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they're starting from. We protect what's special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger; ensuring they get an education that's, quite literally, world class.

We are looking for a passionate and experienced HR Executive to join our regional team. As HR Executive, you will be at the heart of our people operationssupporting employees across multiple schools and our regional office. This is a dynamic generalist HR role, ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, loves variety, and wants to make a real impact.

Key Responsibilities

HR Administration

Maintain accurate employee records and HR databases across the employee lifecycle

Respond promptly to employee queries in line with SLAs

Administer HR policies, procedures, and employee benefits

Draft employee communications including letters, NOCs, certificates, and contracts

Oversee visa/work permit/medical insurance processes and renewals

Track employee attendance, leave, training, and performance review documentation

Support payroll inputs and verify processing accuracy

Prepare HR reports and audit-ready documentation

Contribute to HR systems improvement and employee engagement initiatives

Employee Relations

Provide clear, professional HR advice on matters such as performance, grievance, and disciplinary

Act as the first point of contact for ER issues, escalating where appropriate

Maintain documentation in compliance with UAE Labour Law and company policy

Support Heads of HR with administrative tasks as needed

Offboarding & Separations

Manage end-to-end offboarding, including EOSB, visa and insurance cancellation

Ensure a smooth and compliant separation process for all employees

What We're Looking For

Experience in a generalist HR role covering the full employee lifecycle (education sector experience is a plus)

Knowledge of UAE Labour Law (GCC experience a bonus)

Strong organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Ability to manage multiple tasks, work across different locations, and meet deadlines

Experience with database systems and HRIS tools

The company reserves the right to interview and appoint strong candidates before the official closing date, and therefore we would encourage candidates to apply early in the process.

Cognita is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expects the same from its employees. All new staff will be subject to detailed and enhanced pre-employment clearance, including identity checks, criminal background checks for all countries lived in, qualification checks, employment checks to include an exploration of any gaps in employment, and satisfactory reference checks for all employment in the last 10 years.