Nationalization Senior Manager UAE National

With offices in 152 countries and nearly 328,000 professionals, we are one of the world's leading professional services networks, helping organisations and individuals create lasting value through Assurance, Tax and Advisory services. For over 40 years, we have contributed to the Middle East's transformation journey, partnering with governments and businesses to deliver sustainable solutions. Today, more than 12,000 of us across Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are shaping the region's future.

Line of Service Overview

Internal Firm Services (IFS) is the trusted foundation of PwC, delivering innovative managed services and operational capabilities that enable our clients' evolving needs. A career in IFS offers diverse opportunities across Human Capital, Finance, Technology, Clients & Markets, Marketing & Communications, Risk & Quality, Partner Development, Office Management, and Managed Services. We don't just support the business - we shape it, driving strategies and initiatives that power growth and transformation across PwC Middle East.

Business Unit Overview

Human Capital at PwC Middle East is transforming how we deliver people services through Centers of Excellence, drives innovative workforce practices, and leverages seamless, tech-enabled solutions. We unify and standardize HC service delivery while remaining responsive to each Line of Service, fostering a culture rooted in agility, collaboration, integrity, and innovation. Our focus is on creating a future ready workforce by aligning talent strategies with business goals, enhancing employee experience, and building stronger HC capabilities - ensuring trust, equity, and operational excellence across the organization.

How You'll Contribute

As a Nationalization Senior Manager, you'll work as part of a team of problem solvers, helping to solve complex business issues from strategy to execution. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Emiratization Strategy
  • Lead the design and delivery of a robust Emiratization strategy aligned with PwC's talent agenda and local regulatory requirements.
  • Develop targeted recruitment and retention strategies to increase national hires while reducing attrition through engagement, development, and progression frameworks.
  • Collaborate with leadership and workforce planning teams to set ambitious but achievable nationalization goals, ensuring alignment with business priorities and capacity needs.
• STEP Program Management (Sustainable Talent Exchange Program)
  • Manage STEP in collaboration with nationalization sponsoring partners.
  • Create MOUs and complete Job-Based Risk (JBR) and independence requirements.
  • Draft and manage secondee contracts.
  • Coordinate with external employers and stakeholders to ensure smooth execution of the program.
• GCC Regional Compliance & Ad-hoc Requests
  • Ensure compliance with local nationalization laws and other country-specific mandates.
  • Address ad-hoc nationalization requests.
• Stakeholder Management
  • Build strong, consultative relationships with internal stakeholders, including business unit leaders, Talent Acquisition teams, and Human Capital Business Leads.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership by providing market insights, benchmarking data, and strategic recommendations specific to GCC national talent.
  • Represent PwC in external forums, career fairs, and nationalization events, strengthening ties with government entities, academic institutions, and community organizations.
• Data-Driven Recruitment & Reporting
  • Leverage data analytics and recruitment technology to measure performance across nationalization initiatives.
  • Provide actionable, data-led insights to senior leadership to continuously improve offerings.
  • Maintain clear, accurate reporting on KPIs and ensure transparent communication with stakeholders.
• Compliance and Risk Management
  • Ensure full compliance with the relevant UAE labor regulations and nationalization policies, including mandated quotas and reporting requirements.
  • Deliver regular updates and reports to leadership and external regulatory bodies on performance, risk areas, and mitigation strategies.
• Enhance PwC's position as an employer of choice for national talent through targeted branding campaigns and university engagement.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing nationalization team, fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high-impact working culture.

What You'll Bring

• Years of Experience: 10+ years in leading Nationalization strategies and programs, talent acquisition, talent management, talent development or workforce planning with Nationalization agenda at the forefront.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field. Master's degree in similar field is preferred.
• Designations & Certifications: Professional HR certifications (e.g., CIPD, SHRM) are an advantage.
• Technical Skills
  • Strong understanding of GCC labor laws and nationalization frameworks with focus on UAE.
  • Expertise in drafting contracts, MOUs, and compliance documentation.
  • Proficiency in HR systems and data analytics for reporting.
• Soft Skills
  • Strategic thinking and problem-solving.
  • Strong stakeholder management and negotiation skills.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
  • Language Skills: Fluency in English and Arabic.

How You'll Make a Difference

At PwC Midde East, we expect all our people to embody the skills and behaviours ofThe PwC Professionalframework, helping us deliver on our strategy while growing and developing as leaders at every level.

Why You'll Love Working at PwC

At PwC Middle East, you'll find more than just a job - you'll build a meaningful career, supported by rewards and benefits that help you thrive. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and programs that promote well-being, balance, and personal growth. You'll have access to continuous learning, digital upskilling, and a collaborative environment that values innovation, mentorship, and diversity. Are you ready to make a difference? Want to unlock new value by applying your unique perspective and talents? You can grow exponentially here. Discover more aboutLife at PwC Middle East.