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HR Q&A
- Posted: 15.07.09
- Subject: HR Role Definition
- Job Function: Generalist HR & Business Partnering
- Industry: Banking & Financial Services
- Location: Dubai
- GUEST EXPERT - Rob Jack: Having worked in Dubai, how would you characterise some of the differences in the HR profession there versus the other locations in which you have worked?
- Answer:
Rob Jack
Head of Human Resources, Consumer Banking, North East Asia
Standard Chartered Bank
Based in Shanghai
Dubai is a unique market for many reasons, but there are three characteristics that will stand out for HR professionals working there. Firstly, businesses are constantly facing a changing array of challenges and opportunities. Things that might unfold over a decade in more mature markets can occur within a matter of months and years in Dubai. This is a shared characteristic of a number of rapidly growing Middle-Eastern and Asian markets, most notably China, and it has the tendency to exponentially magnify the people-related challenges.Secondly, there can be a tendency towards over-confidence in many expatriate business leaders. The HR professional, along with other functional partners, will almost certainly be called upon to harness this enthusiasm while ensure that a sustainable business is being built. Ensuring that the right governance practices are in place is crucial, as is taking time to develop meaningful coaching relationships.
The third notable characteristic is the Diversity of the workforce in Dubai. Unsurprisingly this touches on every aspect of HR, most notably Employee Engagement / Performance, Rewards, Capability Development and Leadership Effectiveness. Almost certainly the HR team will be equally diverse, and it can take a lot of time and care to understand and leverage the respective experience and strengths of each team member.
The result of these characteristics tends to be a professional environment that is both challenging and rewarding. It could even be described as a crucible for an HR professional's business partnering capability.- Back to list
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