Human Resources Director – Retail & GCC (Kuwait)

About the role

A leading retail group operating across Kuwait and the GCC is seeking an experienced Human Resources Director to drive its people and organisational transformation. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will shape the HR operating model and align talent strategies with business growth.

Key responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end HR functions including talent acquisition, HR operations, compensation & benefits, performance management, employee relations and organisational development.
• Design and implement organisational structures, job architecture, salary bands and performance frameworks.
• Oversee workforce planning, manpower budgeting and staffing productivity.
• Upgrade appraisal processes to differentiate high, average and under‑performing employees.
• Accelerate recruitment for senior leadership and specialised roles.
• Strengthen retention, succession planning and leadership capability across Kuwait and GCC markets.
• Ensure multinational payroll governance, reporting and compliance.
• Partner with the CEO and business leaders to foster a performance‑driven, accountable culture.
• Leverage HR systems, analytics and workforce data to improve decision‑making and operational efficiency.

Required profile

• Minimum 10 years of progressive HR experience with substantial leadership responsibility.
• Proven ownership of a broad, end‑to‑end HR function.
• Strong background in retail, consumer, FMCG, hospitality or similar frontline‑workforce environments.
• Experience supporting a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees or more.
• Successful track record in HR transformation, manpower planning, performance management and organisational development.
• Experience hiring senior leaders through direct sourcing, market mapping or executive search.
• In‑depth knowledge of Kuwait and GCC employment practices.
• Fluency in Arabic and English preferred.

Required skills

What we offer

• Direct exposure to the CEO and executive leadership.
• Authority to reshape the HR function across a multi‑business GCC footprint.
• High‑visibility role where HR initiatives directly influence growth, productivity and organisational performance.