Human Resources Director

Job Title: HR Director - Asset Maintenance (Oil & Gas / Utilities)

Location: Abu Dhabi - Middle East (with frequent travel across Middle East & Caspian Region)

Reporting To: Group HR Director / Business Unit CEO

Role Overview

We are seeking a seasoned HR Director to lead the human resources function for our Asset Maintenance Division, supporting large-scale Oil & Gas and Utilities projects across the Middle East and Caspian region.

This role requires a strategic HR leader with strong experience in project-based environments, workforce mobilization, and managing multicultural teams across geographically dispersed operations.

Key Responsibilities Strategic HR Leadership

• Develop and execute HR strategies aligned with business objectives for asset maintenance operations
• Partner with senior leadership to drive organizational effectiveness and workforce planning
• Lead transformation initiatives including restructuring, workforce optimization, and localization

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning

• Oversee large-scale recruitment for technical roles (engineering, maintenance, shutdown projects)
• Build pipelines for critical roles across multiple countries
• Ensure compliance with local labor laws and nationalization programs

Employee Relations & Engagement

• Manage complex employee relations issues across diverse cultures
• Drive engagement, retention, and performance culture in remote project sites
• Lead grievance handling, disciplinary processes, and conflict resolution

Performance & Talent Management

• Implement performance management frameworks and succession planning
• Identify high-potential talent and leadership development programs
• Support leadership capability building across regions
• Design competitive compensation structures aligned with regional benchmarks
• Oversee payroll, benefits, and expatriate packages
• Ensure internal equity and external competitiveness

HR Operations & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with labor laws across Middle East and Caspian countries
• Oversee HR policies, procedures, and governance
• Manage audits, risk, and HR reporting

Candidate Profile Experience

• 15-20+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 8+ years in a leadership role
• Strong background in Oil & Gas, Utilities, EPC, or Asset Maintenance projects
• Experience managing HR across multiple countries (Middle East / Caspian preferred)

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field
• Master's degree or MBA preferred
• Strategic thinking with strong business acumen
• Experience in project-based workforce environments
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills
• Deep knowledge of international labor laws and mobility
• High cultural intelligence and adaptability

Preferred Criteria

• European national with willingness to relocate/travel extensively
• Experience working in emerging markets or remote project environments
• Exposure to joint ventures or multinational organizations