Job Description

The Opportunity
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic HR Manager to join our leadership team. This is a pivotal role for a people-centric professional who is ready to shape the employee experience from the ground up. You will be the architect of our HR strategy, ensuring we attract, develop, and retain the world-class educators and staff who make our mission possible. If you are driven by the challenge of building a positive, high-performing culture within a vibrant educational setting, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic HR Leadership:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive HR strategy aligned with the school's vision, mission, and strategic goals.
• Act as a strategic advisor to the senior leadership team on all people-related matters, including organizational design, change management, and employee engagement.
• Utilize HR metrics and analytics to provide insights and guide data-driven decision-making.

Talent Acquisition & Onboarding:

• Lead end-to-end recruitment for all academic and administrative staff, ensuring a efficient and positive candidate experience.
• Develop innovative sourcing strategies to attract top-tier teaching talent from around the globe.
• Design and manage a robust onboarding program that seamlessly integrates new hires into the school community and culture.

Performance & Talent Management:

• Oversee the annual performance management cycle, providing guidance to managers on goal setting, constructive feedback, and development planning.
• Identify high-potential employees and create tailored career development and succession plans.
• Manage the promotion and tenure process for academic staff.

Learning & Development:

• Conduct training needs analyses and design a annual L&D calendar to address both individual and organizational needs.
• Facilitate professional development workshops on topics such as instructional leadership, child safeguarding, well-being, and compliance.

Employee Relations & Policy:

• Serve as a trusted and impartial point of contact for all staff, providing expert advice and guidance on HR policies and procedures.
• Manage complex employee relations issues, including grievances, disciplinaries, and conflicts, in accordance with UAE labour law and school policy.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Manage the school's compensation structure, ensuring market competitiveness and internal equity.
• Administer all employee benefits, including medical insurance, visas, flights, and end-of-service benefits.
• Oversee the payroll process in coordination with the finance department.

Compliance & Administration:

• Ensure 100% compliance with all UAE Labour Law, KHDA, and other regulatory body requirements.
• Maintain impeccable and confidential employee records.
• Manage the HR budget efficiently.

Qualifications & Experience

• Essential: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Preferred: Master's degree and/or professional HR certification (e.g., CIPD, SHRM, HRCI).
• A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in a generalist HR role, with at least 2-3 years in a managerial capacity.
• Previous experience within a school or the education sector in the UAE/GCC is highly advantageous.
• In-depth, proven knowledge of UAE Labour Law and experience with KHDA compliance and processes.

The Ideal Candidate Will Possess:

• Strategic Mindset: Ability to think beyond day-to-day operations and contribute to long-term organizational strategy.
• Exceptional Interpersonal Skills: High emotional intelligence with the ability to build trust and rapport with a diverse workforce.
• Cultural Competence: Sensitivity to and experience with a multi-cultural environment.
• Integrity & Discretion: Unwavering ethical standards and ability to handle highly confidential information.
• Resilience & Problem-Solving: A proactive, solutions-oriented approach to challenges.
• Passion for Education: A genuine interest in contributing to the educational sector and supporting those who shape young minds.

Skills Required