Senior Manager, Strategic Workforce Planning & Localization - Saudi Arabia

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and strategic Senior Manager, Strategic Workforce Planning & Localization to join our dynamic team in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In this pivotal role, you will lead the development and execution of comprehensive workforce planning strategies that align with our organization’s long-term business objectives. Your expertise will be instrumental in optimizing talent acquisition, retention, and development initiatives while ensuring compliance with local labor laws and cultural nuances in the Saudi market. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of our workforce in alignment with Hilton’s global standards and the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Workforce Planning: Develop and implement data-driven workforce plans that anticipate future talent needs, ensuring the right skills are available to meet business demands. Collaborate with senior leadership to align workforce strategies with organizational goals and market trends.
• Localization & Compliance: Lead localization efforts to adapt workforce strategies to the Saudi market, including compliance with Nitaqat regulations, Saudization (Nitaqat) requirements, and cultural considerations. Ensure all workforce initiatives adhere to local labor laws and best practices.
• Talent Acquisition & Retention: Oversee end-to-end talent acquisition processes, from sourcing and recruitment to onboarding and integration. Implement retention strategies to minimize turnover and enhance employee engagement, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Workforce Analytics & Reporting: Utilize advanced workforce analytics tools to monitor key metrics, identify trends, and provide actionable insights to leadership. Prepare comprehensive reports on workforce dynamics, including diversity, inclusion, and succession planning.
• Succession Planning: Develop and maintain robust succession plans to ensure leadership continuity and mitigate risks associated with critical role vacancies. Identify high-potential employees and create tailored development programs to groom future leaders.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Partner with HR business partners, department heads, and external stakeholders to align workforce strategies with operational needs. Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on workforce-related decisions and initiatives.
• Change Management: Lead change management initiatives related to workforce restructuring, digital transformation, or organizational redesign. Ensure smooth transitions and minimize disruptions to business operations.

Qualifications & Skills

To excel in this role, you must possess a blend of strategic thinking, operational expertise, and a deep understanding of the Saudi labor market. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in workforce planning, localization, and HR leadership within the hospitality or service industry. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in HRIS and workforce analytics tools, and exceptional communication abilities are essential.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree or professional HR certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, PHR) is highly desirable.
• Experience: Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 5 years in a strategic workforce planning or localization role. Prior experience in the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, is strongly preferred.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in HR information systems (e.g., Workday, SAP SuccessFactors), workforce analytics tools, and Microsoft Office Suite. Familiarity with Nitaqat compliance and local labor laws is a must.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels and drive organizational change. Cultural sensitivity and adaptability to thrive in a diverse and dynamic environment.

Why Join Us?

As a Senior Manager at Hilton, you will be part of a global hospitality leader committed to creating exceptional guest experiences while fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on our workforce strategy in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the growth and success of our operations in the region. You will enjoy competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to advance your career within a renowned organization.