HR Director

About Kids First Group

Kids First Group (KFG) is a prominent provider of early childhood education and care with a presence in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. Founded in 2011, the group has expanded to 36 nurseries, supported by dedicated education and operational professionals. Their educational programs include British EYFS, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia approaches, aimed at fostering high-quality, nurturing environments where children can flourish.

Role Overview

KFG is seeking a seasoned and strategic HR Director to lead the group’s human resources function and assist in its continued expansion. The successful candidate will be responsible for crafting and executing the overall people strategy and managing the comprehensive HR cycle throughout the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the Group-wide HR strategy aligned with business goals.
• Act as a strategic HR advisor to the CEO and executive management team.
• Oversee talent acquisition, workforce planning, and employee lifecycle management.
• Promote employee engagement, foster a positive culture, and ensure wellbeing initiatives.
• Manage performance appraisal processes, employee development plans, and succession strategies.
• Lead resolution of complex employee relations issues and handle sensitive people matters.
• Administer compensation, benefits, and reward programs strategically.
• Ensure strict adherence to Labour Law, MOHRE standards, and other regulatory policies.
• Guide Emiratisation implementation and compliance.
• Drive HR process improvements, digital transformation, and utilize HR analytics for informed decision-making.
• Build and maintain strong relationships at all organizational levels to support HR initiatives.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Management, or a related discipline.
• Professional HR certifications such as CIPD or SHRM are highly preferred.
• At least 10 years of advancing HR experience including senior leadership roles.
• Proven expertise in leading HR strategy and teams in large organizations or group settings.
• Comprehensive experience across recruitment, employee relations, performance management, learning and development, compensation & benefits, and workforce planning.
• Strong knowledge of UAE Labour Law, MOHRE regulations, and HR compliance obligations.
• Background in education, childcare, or multi-location operational environments is advantageous.
• History of effective partnership with CEOs and senior leadership in driving HR initiatives.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal applicant will be a strategic, people-centric HR leader with commercial insight, authoritative presence, exceptional communication abilities, sound decision-making skills, and the capability to manage complex HR issues while fostering a positive and high-performing workplace culture.

Why Work at Kids First Group?

Joining KFG means contributing to a community passionate about early childhood development and committed to delivering excellent experiences for children and their families. This position offers a valuable opportunity for career growth, relationship building, and professional skill enhancement within a reputable and growing education group.

• Competitive tax-free remuneration.
• Annual return air ticket entitlement and paid vacation.
• Comprehensive medical coverage as per company policy.
• Ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Leadership role within an expanding early years education group.
• Influence over the Group’s people strategy and HR direction.
• Supportive and collaborative leadership culture.
• Chance to spearhead HR transformation and organizational development.
• A workplace culture promoting innovation, career growth, and employee wellness.

Location

Dubai, United Arab Emirates.