Company Description
Over the many years of its pursuit for investment diversification, the Ghobash Group has capitalized on opportunities in sectors with encouraging growth potential by either buying out established operating companies or founding new businesses to extend value into those markets. As the portfolio of these fully, or majority-owned operating companies grew and became more diversified, the Group established ABAN INVESTMENT in 2008 to administer and facilitate its smooth operation. Each operating company general manager reports into the CEO of Aban Investment and as such it is an actively managed portfolio of companies.
ABAN Investment currently has stakes in Technology, Oil & Gas, Pharmaceuticals, Industrial Chemicals and Supplies, Hospitality, Healthcare, and Consumer Services. It is committed to building high-value businesses, from start-ups and early stage ventures to mergers and acquisitions for more mature businesses.
Job Description
The UAE Talent Strategy Lead is accountable for designing, executing, and monitoring the Group’s Emiratization and Talent Management strategy in alignment with UAE labor regulations and national workforce development goals. Working in close collaboration with the Head of Talent Management, this role will lead the expansion of the Emirati talent database by implementing targeted workforce planning initiatives and enhancing the Group’s employer brand and EVP through strategic partnerships and effective stakeholder collaboration.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Strategic Planning & Execution
- Design and lead the Group’s Emiratization and talent management strategy in alignment with UAE labor regulations and national workforce development goals.
- Develop and implement strategic workforce planning initiatives to diversify the Emirati talent pool across functions, business units, and career levels, ensuring balanced representation, alignment with national workforce development goals, and long-term business sustainability.
- Oversee the Emiratization recruitment team to ensure delivery of the annual Emiratization targets and action plans in coordination with senior leadership.
- Monitor and report performance against KPIs, including hiring progress, retention, and promotion of UAE Nationals.
Branding and EVP
- Work closely with marketing to build a strong Emirati database that will strengthen our employer brand and promotion of Ghobash Group within the UAE National community.
- Lead on the achievement of NAFES Award recognition across the group
Government Compliance & Policy Management
- Ensure full compliance with all government regulations and reporting requirements related to Emiratization.
- Act as one of the main points of contact for audits, inspections, and reporting with regulatory authorities.
- Stay current on policy changes and adjust internal processes, documentation, and Emiratization-related policies accordingly.
- Drive and ensure effective execution of the Group’s Emiratization policy.
Dashboards and Reporting
- Develop and maintain Emiratization dashboards to monitor key metrics, including hiring progress, retention rates, and career development milestones.
- Provide regular reports to stakeholders on Emiratization targets and achievements.
Internal Stakeholder Engagement
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders including Business Leaders and HR Business Partners to ensure consistent implementation of Emiratization initiatives.
- Promote awareness of Emiratization objectives and foster a culture that values national talent and inclusive practices.
Qualifications
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field
- Advanced certification in HR
Experience
- 8+ years in HR with a focus on Strategic initiatives for Emiratization or Nationalization programs
- Experience with government relations and compliance
Skills & Abilities
- Strong understanding of UAE labor laws and Emiratization policies
- Advanced data analytics and reporting skills
Additional Information
- Full compliance to prevent government-imposed penalties
- Emiratization Budget and measurement of ROI
- Year-over-year increase in Emirati hires
- Retention and engagement rates of UAE Nationals
- Compliance with national Emiratization mandates
- Achievement of NAFES Award recognition across the group
- Be involved in and support with other key projects and initiatives within talent management
