HR Manager - F&B

Job description / Role

Guildhall is seeking an experienced HR Manager to establish and lead the Human Resources function for a luxury premium café brand in Dubai. This is a strategic role where you will build the HR department from the ground up, defining policies, processes, and practices that foster a high-performance culture, ensure compliance, and support the growth and operational excellence of the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

HR Strategy & Department Setup
• Develop and implement the full HR framework, including policies, procedures, and systems.
• Establish the HR department, define roles, responsibilities, and reporting structures.
• Partner with leadership to define organizational structure, manpower planning, and talent strategy.

Talent Acquisition & Management
• Lead end-to-end recruitment for all functions, including F&B, operations, and support staff.
• Develop onboarding programs to ensure smooth integration of new hires.
• Implement performance management systems, KPI frameworks, and appraisal processes.

Employee Engagement & Culture
• Develop initiatives to foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture aligned with brand values.
• Conduct employee engagement surveys and implement strategies to drive retention and motivation.
• Handle employee relations, conflict resolution, and disciplinary procedures.

HR Operations & Compliance
• Ensure compliance with UAE labor laws, company policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee HR operations, including payroll, leave management, record keeping, and HR reporting.
• Manage training and development programs to upskill employees and enhance career growth.

Leadership & Collaboration
• Act as a trusted advisor to management on all HR matters.
• Collaborate across departments to support business objectives and operational goals.
• Build and mentor a high-performing HR team as the café expands.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5–8 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 3 years in a managerial role in F&B or hospitality.
• Proven experience setting up HR functions or departments from scratch.
• Strong knowledge of UAE labor laws and HR best practices.
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and organizational skills.

Preferred Skills:
• HRIS or payroll software experience.
• Experience in multi-location operations or expansion projects.
• Expertise in performance management, talent development, and succession planning.
• Knowledge of luxury or premium brand HR practices.

About the Company

Guildhall is the most respected HR & Headhunting Consultancy in the MENA Region.

With deep, extensive knowledge of HR & Recruiting in the region, Guildhall has become a trusted partner of choice for candidates and clients. Starting from an exclusive recruitment agency in Dubai - UAE, Guildhall has grown into an elite service with the ability to cover vacancies in across MENA and Asia-pacific.

Offering tailored Career Sessions and an innovative industry-first membership program designed to save money on core services.

Guildhall is the partner of choice.