Head of Emiratisation

Our client, a well-established international bank with a strong presence in the Middle East and Europe is currently searching for a hands on Emiratisation Head to join their dynamic team in Dubai.

The role is positioned as a strategic leadership position with a clear succession path to broader HR leadership responsibilities.

The role

- Develop and implement the Bank's Emiratisation strategy in alignment with business objectives and regulatory requirements

- Establish annual Emiratisation plans, targets, and workforce initiatives across all divisions

- Partner with business leaders to identify opportunities for increasing UAEN representation across key functions and leadership levels

- Monitor workforce trends and develop succession plans to strengthen the local talent pipeline

- Design and implement development programs, graduate schemes, internships, mentorship initiatives, and leadership development pathways for UAEN

- Monitor employee engagement, career progression, and retention of UAEN employees

- Serve as the primary point of contact for Emiratisation matters with regulatory authorities and government stakeholders

- Advise senior management on Emiratisation trends, challenges, and opportunities

- Track and report Emiratisation metrics, workforce demographics, hiring performance, retention rates, and development outcomes

Client requirements

- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related discipline; Master's degree preferred

- 10+ years of Human Resources experience, with significant exposure to Emiratisation, talent acquisition, talent management, or workforce planning within banking or financial services

- Strong understanding of UAEN labour regulations, Emiratisation policies, and banking sector requirements

Success Measures

- Achievement of Emiratisation targets and regulatory requirements

- Improvement in UAEN attraction, retention, and engagement rates

- Development of a sustainable leadership pipeline of Emirati talent

- Positive audit and compliance outcomes

- Strong partnerships with government and educational institutions