HR Manager MEA - Mat Cover (temporary)

**HR Manager – MEA \| 9\-Month Maternity Cover** We're partnering with a leading global FMCG brand to find an experienced HR Manager for a 9\-month maternity cover based in Dubai. This is a hands\-on operational role covering the MEA, reporting into an HR Director and managing two direct reports. **The Role:** You'll own the day\-to\-day HR function across the region, keeping recruitment, payroll, employee lifecycle, and compliance running smoothly during the cover period. This isn't a transformation role; it's about operational excellence and continuity. **Key responsibilities include:** * Executing recruitment plans across the markets * Managing end\-to\-end payroll across region * Employee onboarding, offboarding, and lifecycle management * Compliance with local employment laws across multiple jurisdictions * First\-line HR support to line managers and business leaders * Managing HR/office admin through direct reports **What we're looking for:** * 4–5\+ years in HR operations or HR generalist roles within an international or regional business * Ideally worked in FMCG * Multi\-country experience across MEA * Strong payroll and HR administration knowledge * Reliable, structured, and confident working independently * Fluent English