HR Operations Manager

Leverage your abilities and join the dynamic team of a leading global manufacturer of building materials, supporting operational expansion and manufacturing initiatives in KSA. The HR Operations Manager will own full accountability for the plant HR agenda, core HR operations, employee services, and team leadership, acting as a key HR Business Partner to plant management. The role offers executive HR leadership, team management, and the opportunity to drive company-wide HR practices, talent pipeline development, and operational efficiency across multi-site plant and office locations.

Location

Jeddah/Yanbu, Saudi Arabia Key Accountabilities Supervise daily HR operations across all functions, managing payroll processing, benefits administration, employee services, and immigration/PRO activities. Own full oversight of HR operational budgets and administrative processes to ensure cost control and compliance across plant operations. Monitor HR service delivery, employee inquiries, and admin workflows to maximize team responsiveness and minimize operational downtime. Design and implement operational HR policies, procedures, and global competency frameworks across manufacturing sites. Ensure labor law compliance, route efficiency in employee mobility/travel, and regulatory safety adherence across all plant departments. Develop and maintain a smooth industrial relations environment, managing workplace culture, employee grievances, and risk mitigation. Lead, direct, and motivate HR operations teams, setting operational KPIs and guiding staff toward organizational goals. Mobilize new HR programs, talent initiatives, and onboarding schedules on time, covering manpower, training, and start-up plant operations. Partner with department heads on manpower planning, budgeting, and talent acquisition before committing to operational headcount. Collaborate with Plant Leadership on performance management, employee retention, and work with HSE on health and safety compliance. Set and monitor HR KPIs, resolving workplace disputes and reporting performance metrics directly to Country and Regional HR Leadership.

Desired Candidate Profile

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience Bachelor s degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field. Minimum 5 7 years of progressive HR experience, including at least 2 years in a manufacturing, industrial, or plant environment. Proven experience managing HR operations, payroll budgets, and administrative cost control strategies. Demonstrated experience leading small HR teams and managing multi-site plant workforces. Deep knowledge of KSA labor laws, workplace regulations, and industrial best practices. Hands-on experience with HRIS, ERP systems, HR analytics, and advanced Excel reporting. Fluent in both English and Arabic (written and spoken). HR certification (e.g., SHRM, CIPD) is a plus. Strong leadership, negotiation, dispute resolution, and stakeholder management skills. Flexibility to travel regularly between plant operations in Yanbu and office locations in Jeddah as required by project operations.