Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)

About the role

NYU Abu Dhabi is seeking a senior HR leader to serve as Chief Human Resources Officer. Reporting to the Vice President Global CHRO in New York and the COO in Abu Dhabi, the CHRO will shape people strategy for a world‑class, multicultural university.

Key responsibilities

• Act as strategic advisor to the Vice Chancellor, COO, Provost and senior leadership on all people‑related matters.
• Implement and adapt NYU’s global HR policies, processes and technology for the Abu Dhabi context.
• Lead, develop and inspire a high‑performing HR team, managing the department budget and vendor relationships.
• Design and execute a globally competitive talent acquisition strategy, ensuring inclusive hiring practices.
• Oversee immigration and visa services, maintaining compliance with UAE regulations.
• Develop a competitive total‑rewards framework, conduct compensation benchmarking and address pay equity.
• Drive workforce analytics, HRIS optimization and digital transformation to provide actionable insights.
• Provide expert guidance on complex employee‑relations issues and ensure compliance with UAE labour law.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree (master’s preferred) in Human Resources, Organizational Psychology or related field; HR certification (CIPD, SHRM‑SCP, SPHR) highly desirable.
• 10+ years progressive senior HR leadership experience, including at least 5 years at CHRO or VP‑HR level in a complex, multi‑stakeholder organization.
• Proven track record of developing and executing enterprise‑wide HR strategies that improve performance, culture and talent outcomes.
• Experience leading HR in a multicultural, internationally diverse environment, preferably in higher education or knowledge‑intensive institutions.
• Strong knowledge of UAE labour law, immigration compliance and experience with Emiratization or national talent development programs.