Manager - Emiratization

About the Role
An experienced Emiratization Manager is sought to lead and drive the company's Emiratization strategy, ensuring the attraction, development, engagement, and retention of UAE National talent across the organization. The Emiratization Manager will have both strategic and operational responsibilities, playing a key role in creating a sustainable pipeline of qualified UAE Nationals. This includes effective workforce planning, talent acquisition, career development, succession planning, and employee engagement initiatives.
The role involves close collaboration with Human Resources, business leaders, department heads, and external stakeholders to implement Emiratization programs that align with business objectives, UAE national workforce priorities, and relevant government regulations. Additionally, the Emiratization Manager will work to enhance the employer brand for UAE Nationals by forming strategic partnerships with government entities, educational institutions, and professional organizations, while fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Emiratization Strategy and Governance: Develop and refine the Emiratization strategy and improvement roadmap, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and compliance with UAE policies.
• Drive UAE National Talent Acquisition and Workforce Planning: Collaborate with HR and business leaders on current and future workforce requirements to establish sustainable Emiratization hiring plans.
• Develop Strategic Talent Pipelines: Forge partnerships with educational institutions and government programs to attract UAE National graduates and professionals; create structured internship and development programs.
• Lead UAE National Talent Development Programs: Implement professional development initiatives, including training and coaching, to support career advancement for UAE Nationals.
• Strengthen UAE National Employee Retention and Engagement: Execute retention strategies to enhance job satisfaction and reduce turnover, proactively addressing retention risks.
• Drive Career Development and Succession Planning: Partner with leadership to identify high-potential employees and establish career pathways for critical roles.
• Build Strong Relationships with Government Authorities: Maintain effective relationships with UAE government entities to coordinate employment initiatives and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Ensure Emiratization Regulatory Compliance: Monitor and ensure compliance with Emiratization legislation, focusing on accurate documentation and timely reporting.
• Lead Emiratization Performance Management and Reporting: Establish key performance indicators for Emiratization initiatives, preparing reports to support management decisions.
• Strengthen Employer Brand Among UAE Nationals: Position the organization as an employer of choice by promoting opportunities at national career fairs and networking events.
• Drive Employee Experience and Engagement: Serve as a key resource for UAE National employees regarding career, development, and workplace concerns.
• Partner with Business Leaders: Collaborate with various departments to integrate Emiratization into workforce plans, supporting managerial efforts to develop Emirati talent.
• Develop and Manage Programs: Lead the coordination of Emiratization programs that ensure measurable outcomes and meet both employee and organizational development needs.
• Drive Continuous Improvement: Evaluate and enhance the effectiveness of Emiratization initiatives, implementing plans for performance gaps and promoting best practices.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Management, Organizational Development, or a related discipline.
• A Master's degree in a relevant field is an advantage, as is a professional HR qualification such as CIPD or SHRM.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant professional experience in Emiratization or related fields, preferably in a large organization.
• Proven experience in Emiratization strategies, recruitment, and employee development programs.
• Extensive knowledge of UAE labor laws, Emiratization policies, and workforce development initiatives.
• Experience working with government authorities and educational institutions.
• Familiarity with workforce planning, employee engagement, and retention strategies.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and report preparation.
• Fluent in Arabic and English with excellent communication skills.
• UAE National, according to the role's requirements.

Leadership Competencies

• Effective leadership and influencing skills for engaging employees, stakeholders, and partners.
• Strategic thinking to translate Emiratization objectives into actionable initiatives.
• Strong relationship-building abilities across organizational levels.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to build trust and maintain relationships.
• Planning and organizational skills to manage multiple priorities.
• Analytical and problem-solving capabilities to address workforce challenges.
• Ability to mentor and coach UAE National employees for their professional growth.
• Collaboration skills for effective teamwork across HR and business functions.
• A results-oriented mindset focused on achieving Emiratization objectives.
• High standards of professionalism and a commitment to inclusion and development.
• Ability to lead change and contribute to a sustainable Emiratization culture.