HR Manager

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced HR Manager to join a homegrown, independent multi concept hospitality group based in Dubai. The group operates a small portfolio of design-led restaurant, cafe and specialty food retail brands across the city, alongside a linked creative studio business, and has built a strong reputation in Dubai's independent dining scene since launching in 2019. This is a standalone, hands-on HR position you will be the group's dedicated HR function, reporting directly to the Operations Manager, the Partners and the Head Accountant. It is a rare chance to own an entire HR remit end to end rather than a single specialism, and to shape the people foundations of a growing independent group from the ground up. The role is based at the group's Al Quoz head office on a five-day week, supporting venues that trade seven days. It suits a UAE-based HR generalist with genuine UAE Labour Law fluency who is ready to step into full ownership of the function.

Responsibilities

• Own the full recruitment and talent acquisition cycle developing sourcing strategies, writing and placing job postings, screening, interviewing and onboarding across head office and venue teams.
• Coordinate with department and venue managers to identify staffing needs and plan ahead of openings and seasonal peaks.
• Manage employee relations across the group: foster a positive working environment, drive engagement, and handle employee concerns, conflicts and disciplinary matters fairly and consistently.
• Manage the full employee lifecycle through to exit, including performance improvement, disciplinary process, terminations and off boarding, handled correctly and with proper documentation throughout.
• Develop and administer performance evaluation programmes, and support managers with employee development and performance improvement plans.
• Manage compensation structures and benefits programmes, conduct salary benchmarking and market analysis, and ensure all payroll-related HR information is accurate and delivered on time to the Head Accountant.
• Identify training needs, organise learning and development programmes, and support career development and succession planning.
• Ensure full compliance with UAE Labour Law and all applicable regulations, including MOHRE processes, contracts, visas, Emirates ID and WPS.
• Maintain accurate employee records and HR documentation, and update and implement HR policies and procedures across the group.

Desired Candidate Profile

2 5 years' experience in a generalist Human Resources role, with supervisory or management experience an advantage.

Demonstrable working knowledge of UAE Labour Law and UAE HR practice contracts, probation, working hours, leave, end-of-service gratuity, visa and MOHRE processes. This is essential.

Prior HR experience within a hospitality, F&B, retail or other multi-site, shift-based operation, and a clear understanding of how HR functions in that environment.

Proven capability in managing employee exits professionally and compliantly, from documentation through to final settlement.

Comfortable operating as a standalone HR function in a lean, fast-moving independent business.

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology or a related field.

Excellent communication, leadership and interpersonal skills, with strong written and spoken English.

Proficiency in HR software and Microsoft Office applications.

Willing to work a five-day week in support of venues that operate seven days, and to remain contactable for operational escalations.