Human Resources Business Partner

Opportunity

The Human Resources Department is looking for a Human Resources Business Partner to help drive HR initiatives that support the University’s strategic goals. This role focuses on aligning HR practices with business needs, strengthening workforce planning, supporting employee relations, and ensuring adherence to institutional policies, labor legislation, and the University’s strategic direction.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate HR priorities into actions that match the goals and operating needs of assigned business units, contributing to stronger institutional performance.
• Support and coordinate HR initiatives such as talent management, organizational change, and workforce planning so they effectively serve business unit objectives.
• Advise department leaders and managers on workforce planning, organizational design, and related HR matters.
• Provide input and guidance on performance management activities, including goal setting, appraisal systems, and individual development plans.
• Partner with the Organizational Development and Training team to assess talent development needs.
• Work with relevant stakeholders to resolve employee relations matters in a fair and policy-aligned manner.
• Ensure all HR-related work complies with labor law, internal HR policies and frameworks, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Serve as a communication bridge between employees and the HR function, ensuring clear, timely, and accurate support.
• Contribute to succession planning efforts and help identify high-potential employees for leadership development programs.
• Coordinate with recruitment and Emiratization teams by providing input on job requirements, interview participation, and candidate selection to ensure business alignment.
• Handle additional duties assigned by the direct supervisor as needed.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in human resources or a closely related discipline.
• At least 8 years of relevant experience in human resources, or an equivalent mix of education, skills, and experience.
• Certification in Hay Salary methodology.
• Strong command of both Arabic and English.
• Willingness and ability to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
• Preferred: prior experience in an academic environment.

Benefits

The University offers an attractive benefits package that includes tax-free competitive compensation in the UAE, cash housing support, annual vacation airfare for the employee and immediate family, education support for children, and healthcare coverage for the employee and sponsored family members.

Additional Information

Only candidates selected for interview will be contacted. For questions or issues, email Recruitment@zu.ac.ae.