Arada HR Operations Manager

About Arada

Arada develops communities designed to inspire healthier, happier, and more meaningful lives. The company focuses on innovative developments, customer experiences, and sustainability to create environments where people can live, work, and thrive. Joining Arada means becoming part of a collaborative and ambitious team committed to delivering excellence.

The Role of HR Operations Manager

Arada is seeking an HR Operations Manager to be its first in-country People Experience hire in Saudi Arabia. This full-time role, based in Riyadh, involves managing HR (PX) operations end-to-end for all Group entities within the Kingdom. The manager will report to the Group Head of HR (PX) Operations and collaborate with HR (PX) Business Partners and HR (PX) leadership. This is a hands-on position focused on building core processes and ensuring compliance for all entities.

Key Responsibilities

• Government Relations: Manage HR government platforms for Saudi entities, including Qiwa for work permits and contracts, Muqeem and Absher Business for iqamas and exit processes, and GOSI for registrations and reporting. Serve as the primary contact with MHRSD and related authorities.
• Saudization: Track Nitaqat bands and profession-specific localization with the central PX team. Model the impact of hires and exits, and advise leaders on workforce plans to maintain entity compliance.
• Employee Lifecycle: Oversee the complete employee lifecycle, including screening, offers, contracts compliant with Saudi Labour Law, onboarding, probation, transfers, contract changes, resignations, terminations, end-of-service calculations, and exit clearance.
• Payroll and Records: Provide accurate monthly payroll inputs and ensure the Group PX system and employee files are accurate, up-to-date, and consistent.
• Compliance: Monitor labour law changes, manage timely renewals for iqamas, work permits, passports, and medical insurance. Adapt Group policies to Saudi-compliant practices and keep entity work regulations and disciplinary schedules current.
• Partnering: Act as the first-line PX partner for in-country leaders on employee relations, performance, discipline, and grievances. Integrate compliance perspectives into decisions and ensure adherence to Group policies.
• Providers and Office Set-up: Manage in-country providers (medical insurance, recruitment, government services) to agreed service levels. Support office set-up and management, including facilities, workspace, equipment, access for new joiners, and visit visas for Group colleagues.
• Reporting: Provide monthly reports on headcount, Saudization, permits, and compliance risks. Identify inefficient processes and handle all employee data in accordance with the Saudi Personal Data Protection Law.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Saudi nationality (this role is open to Saudi nationals only).
• 6+ years of HR experience in Saudi Arabia, with hands-on ownership of government relations and lifecycle transactions.
• Practical experience with Qiwa, Muqeem, Absher Business, GOSI, and Nitaqat, including resolving exceptions and violations.
• Working knowledge of the Saudi Labour Law and its implementing regulations.
• Experience advising line managers directly as an HR generalist or business partner, preferably in a new or rapidly growing entity.
• Fluent in both written and spoken Arabic and English.
• A self-directed approach with the ability to build processes from scratch and exercise sound judgment in escalating issues.
• Discretion with confidential data and understanding of local data residency rules.
• A bachelor’s degree in HR, business, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Office set-up experience.
• Experience with multi-entity structures.
• Background in real estate, construction, hospitality, or fitness.
• Experience with Darwinbox or SAP SuccessFactors.
• CIPD, SHRM, or equivalent certification.

Working at Arada

At Arada, you will contribute to projects that transform communities alongside talented professionals. The company fosters a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous growth. Arada is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where individuals can thrive and make a meaningful impact.