Senior HR & Payroll Manager (UAE & UK Experience)

We are searching for an experienced Senior HR & Payroll Manager who will build the HR function from the ground up, putting in place the policies, processes and systems the Dubai operation needs, and leading recruitment as the team grows. You will also oversee payroll and bring UK HR and payroll expertise, working closely with the group's HR team at its UK head office.What we're looking forEssentialSignificant HR experience in both the UK and the UAEStrong knowledge of UK employment law and HR practice, and of UAE labour lawAt least 3 years overseeing or running end-to-end payrollExperience setting up or scaling an HR function, ideally in a growing or start-up operationRecruitment experience in the UAE for administrative and first-line management rolesComfortable working on site in the Dubai office and travelling to the UK at least once a quarter for a weekExcellent communication, organisation and discretionPreferredCIPD Level 5 or aboveSage Payroll experience (other payroll systems also welcome)Experience in manufacturing, operations or multi-site businessesA track record of using HR software to modernise and streamline processesKey responsibilitiesSetting up HR in DubaiDesign and implement HR policies, procedures and employee handbook in line with UAE labour lawSet up employment contracts, offer letters, onboarding, probation and exit processesManage visas, work permits, labour cards, medical insurance and other UAE compliance requirementsSelect and implement HR and payroll systems; modernising and streamlining HR processes is a key objective in the first yearTalent acquisitionLead recruitment for the new Dubai team, from administrative to first-line management rolesBuild hiring processes, job descriptions and interview frameworksShape onboarding and induction so new joiners settle in quicklyPayrollOversee end-to-end payroll, ensuring accuracy and complianceWork with the UK team on UK payroll, including statutory payments, pensions auto-enrolment and HMRC submissionsReconcile payroll with Finance and lead annual pay reviews and payroll budgetingEmployee relations and complianceAdvise managers on performance, absence, disciplinary and grievance mattersKeep HR practice compliant with both UAE labour law and UK employment lawMaintain accurate HR records and data protectionPrepare HR and payroll reports for senior management