Human Resources Manager (Saudization)

Location: Dammam, Saudi ArabiaIndustry: Valve Manufacturing / Heavy Industrial EngineeringReports To: General Manager / Regional HR DirectorThe HR Manager will oversee all human resources operations for manufacturing and servicing facility in Dammam. This role is responsible for driving talent acquisition, managing employee relations, ensuring strict compliance with Saudi Labor Law, and leading strategic initiatives to meet Saudization (Nitaqat) targets.Responsibilities: Strategic HR & ComplianceAlign HR strategies with business goals, ensuring smooth workforce planning for both plant operations and corporate functions.Maintain complete compliance with Saudi Labor Law, GOSI, MHRSD regulations, and Muqeem portal requirements.Lead and optimize Saudization (Nitaqat) initiatives to ensure the company remains in the high green/platinum bands.Monitor and report on localized HR metrics to support Saudi Aramco’s IKTVA (In-Kingdom Total Value Add) program commitments.Talent Acquisition & OnboardingManage the full-cycle recruitment process for technical, engineering, manufacturing, and administrative positions.Build pipelines for skilled local talent, including partnerships with local technical colleges and universities.Oversee the onboarding process for both local hires and expatriate workers, managing visa processing and relocation logistics.Employee Relations & EngagementAct as a trusted advisor to management and employees, resolving grievances, managing disciplinary actions, and fostering a collaborative workplace culture.Bridge the cultural and operational dynamics of a global joint venture environment, ensuring seamless collaboration between local teams and international stakeholders.Implement employee engagement and retention strategies tailored to a manufacturing plant environment.Performance Management & DevelopmentDrive the annual performance evaluation process, ensuring clear KPIs are set for factory floor staff and office personnel alike.Identify training needs and implement development programs to upskill the local workforce, supporting Saudi Vision 2030 development goals.Compensation, Benefits & HR OperationsOversee payroll administration, end-of-service benefits (ESOB), medical insurance schemes, and annual leave planning.Maintain accurate employee records, personnel files, and HRIS data.Collaborate with the Government Relations Officer (GRO) / Public Relations Officer (PRO) to expedite Iqama renewals, exit/re-entry visas, and labor office documentation.Qualifications:Education & ExperienceBachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. An HR certification (e.g., CIPD, SHRM) is highly preferred.10 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 3 years in an HR Manager or Assistant HR Manager role.Proven experience working within the manufacturing, engineering, or oil & gas service sectors in Saudi Arabia is required.Skills & KnowledgeLanguage: Full professional fluency in both Arabic and English (written and spoken) is required to manage regulatory affairs and corporate communication.Deep, up-to-date knowledge of Saudi Labor Law, Nitaqat, IKTVA programs, and government portals (Qiwa, Muqeem, GOSI).Strong leadership, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.Experience managing HR operations for a multinational joint venture (JV) is a strong plus.