Director of Professional Development (UAE National)

About the role

The role leads the Professional Development for Leadership and School Staff Department within a leading UAE government education entity. It provides strategic leadership to enhance employee capabilities, performance and organizational effectiveness across the education sector.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and oversee departmental units, ensuring performance, coordination and achievement of objectives.
• Develop and implement strategic and operational plans, KPIs and performance measures.
• Design policies and procedures for employee performance management and ensure compliance.
• Identify high‑potential staff and create professional development, career progression and succession plans.
• Establish competency and performance assessment systems and analyse data to identify gaps.
• Develop and deliver professional development programmes for school leaders and staff.
• Build strategic partnerships with government entities, educational institutions and professional organisations.
• Lead change‑management initiatives and promote collaboration among stakeholders.

Required profile

• UAE National (mandatory).
• Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctorate in Business Administration or relevant discipline.
• Minimum experience: 10 years (Bachelor), 7 years (Master) or 4 years (Doctorate) in senior‑level HR or related fields.
• Proven senior experience in performance management, talent management, leadership development, succession planning or organizational development.
• Strong experience developing policies, frameworks, KPIs and strategic plans.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and large‑scale strategic initiatives.

Required skills

• Performance Management
• Professional/Learning & Development
• Talent Management
• Competency Management
• Leadership Development
• Succession Planning
• Organizational Development