Senior Specialist TA Emiratization

Job Description: Senior Specialist Talent Acquisition – Emiratization

Purpose

At adidas, we believe sports has the power to change lives. To strengthen our connection with the communities we serve, we are committed to the UAEs national vision by attracting and developing top Emirati talent.

We are searching for a Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist with a specialized focus on Emiratization. This role is pivotal in developing and executing targeted strategies to proactively source, attract, and recruit high-potential UAE Nationals for a variety of roles, with an initial focus on our Retail division. You will be a key driver in supporting the UAEs economic growth and adidass commitment to local talent.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive Emiratization recruitment strategy to build a robust pipeline of Emirati talent for retail and back-office positions.
• Partner closely with Emiratization-focused government entities (e.g., Nafis, TAMM) to leverage support programs, access talent pools, and ensure alignment with national initiatives.
• Drive the end-to-end recruitment process for UAE Nationals, including requisition approval, hiring manager briefing, candidate sourcing, screening, interviewing, and the offer process.
• Build strong, trusted relationships with HR, Hiring Managers, and key internal Emiratization stakeholders to anticipate and meet evolving talent needs.
• Utilize a variety of channels to attract Emirati talent, including local job fairs, university partnerships, specialized online platforms, and professional networks.
• Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives specifically aimed at recruiting and retaining diverse Emirati talent.
• Provide coaching and culturally nuanced advice to both Emirati candidates and hiring managers throughout the interview and onboarding process.
• Support the development and implementation of employer branding strategies that resonate with the local Emirati community and enhance our position as an employer of choice.
• Leverage recruitment systems effectively, ensuring all data is accurate for Emiratization tracking and reporting purposes.
• Support additional Emiratization initiatives as needed.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Deep understanding of the UAE labor market, Emirati talent landscape, and cultural nuances.
• Proven ability to build relationships with government bodies and institutions supporting Emiratization.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage effectively with Emirati candidates and community leaders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize workload in a fast-paced environment.
• Action-oriented and proactive approach to working with hiring managers and HR teams.
• Proven ability to use behavioral interviewing techniques.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and manage confidential information appropriately
• Advanced MS Office skills and experience in applicant tracking systems.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelors Degree in HR, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in Talent Acquisition, with proven experience in Emiratization recruitment or hiring for the UAE market.
• Fluent in both English and Arabic is essential.
• Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a proven ability to take initiative.
• Advanced level of MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Has advanced experience in recruitment sourcing channels, particularly those effective for engaging UAE Nationals.
• Has good organization & planning skills.
• A commitment to continuous learning and development.
• Has team spirit and is eager to be a part of a global retail company.
  
  

adidas celebrates diversity, supports inclusiveness and encourages individual expression in our workplace. We do not tolerate the harassment or discrimination toward any of our applicants or employees. We are an equal opportunity employer.

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