Human Resources Director, MENA (Arabic & English Speaking)

APCO, a global advisory and advocacy firm helping clients navigate a complex world and create lasting impact is seeking a Regional Human Resources Director based in our Dubai office.

The Director will develop and execute the overall talent strategy for our business operations in the MENA region which includes KSA, UAE, Jordan and Bahrain. The Director will be a member of the regional leadership team and serve as a partner to the Regional President, COO, Managing Directors, leaders and managers in meeting their talent needs. The director will oversee all aspects of people management, from talent acquisition, through on-boarding, performance management and career development, total rewards and building a strong, engaging culture. The HR Director will lead and/or participate in several new initiatives or projects, such as attracting and growing talent, ensuring that colleagues understand their career paths and are professionally and personally growing, leaders engagement in people management, employer brand development, employee mobility and duty of care.

We welcome a colleague who is driven, knowledgeable, and passionate about talent development and organizational change. We are looking for a leader who enjoys a fast-paced environment, is adaptable to ever-changing business conditions, and is excited about problem-solving and serving as a consultant to the business. The HRD will serve as a thought leader and resource to lead talent initiatives in the region and contribute to global efforts in the APCO network. This senior leader will supervise a team of HR professionals and report to the Chief Talent Officer.

The ideal candidate is someone who knows the industry, collaborates with others, can influence key stakeholders by bringing expertise and ideas, and maintains composure when faced with tough situations. Global perspective and previous international experience in the MENA region are highly desired.

Primary Responsibilities

• Work with Regional President, COO, Managing Directors and APCO’s leadership to identify key talent management priorities, develop and execute an appropriate talent strategy that support MENA’s business goals.
• Partner with leadership to support organizational design and change leadership
• Engage with diverse workforce and leadership to form strong relationships and manage employee needs and problem-solve; present independent opinion and identify and execute solutions.
• Lead and inspire a team of HR professionals and collaboratively work with the team to implement strategy-informed programs and solutions.
• Oversee and ensure best practices in recruitment, employee hiring and on-boarding, internal transfers and off-boarding, particularly in an environment of seconded teams embedded with the clients.
• Manage the full employee experience: lead the performance management program and support managers and staff in achieving high performance standards.
• In collaboration with our global compensation expert, manage MENA compensation program, access current market data, and ensure the competitiveness of APCO’s compensation and benefits practices.
• Manage the global mobility to and from the region and identify areas of improvement and competitive advantage.
• Work with the HR and Finance teams to ensure compliance across functions, including the filing and accuracy of required reporting.
• Stay abreast of any changes in employment laws and regulations in relevant locations, maintain subject matter expertise and compliance, advising executive leadership as necessary.
• Create an environment where individuals can come together on a regular basis to contribute ideas and share views, and where diversity of experiences and ideas are encouraged and valued.
• Provide coaching and mentoring to the HR team, leaders and managers.
• Provide guidance to managers on employee relations and HR-related issues, ensuring fair and consistent approach to procedures and decision making.
• Coach and grow the HR team members, empowering them to reach their full potential and contribute to the organization's success.
• Serve as a resource to the global HR team by supporting or leading global HR initiatives or providing backup when another team member is on leave.
• Assist with developing budgets for the global talent function.
• Advise on ways to streamline HR procedures for greater efficiency.
• Other responsibilities and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

• MA degree in related field required, MBA or equivalent work experience.
• 15+ years HR Generalist experience – preferably with experience gained in a consulting firm or similar industry.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively in a results-oriented environment with a strong client service and consultative orientation.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, negotiation, writing, speaking, and strong listening skills.
• Ability to think strategically and creatively but also to roll up sleeves and complete tasks.
• Demonstrated stakeholder influencing, mentoring, and coaching skills.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diversified workforce.
• Understanding of relevant country laws and, rules and regulations.
• Understanding of global mobility practices and workplace environments with varying laws and regulations strongly preferred.
• Experience working for a global organization is a plus.
• Professional certification desirable.
• Foreign language skills, preferably Arabic, are highly desired.