HR Director, dnata UK Airport Operations

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Job Purpose

dnata UK Airport Operations is seeking a strategic and dynamic HR Director to lead our UK HR function. This pivotal role partners with the UK executive team (EXCO) and global HR leaders to shape and deliver a people strategy aligned with our values and business goals.

What we do: dnata is one of the world\’s largest air and travel services providers; offering ground handling, cargo, travel, and catering & retail services at over 130 airports in more than 30 countries across six continents. At dnata, we are by your side for the entire travel experience.

dnata within the UK offers passenger, ramp, cargo, and transport handling solutions to some of the world\’s most prestigious airlines. dnata handles 13 million passengers, nearly 25,000 turns, and over 650,000 tonnes of cargo annually, at six of the UK\’s major airports.

Our more than 2,800 employees each receive training of the highest standard and wear the dnata uniform with pride. We deliver on our promises to customers through flexible solutions for passenger and ramp handling that keep your customers moving.

As a HR Director , you will oversee all HR functions including business partnering, talent acquisition, and employee relations, while acting as the primary liaison for union negotiations and organisational change initiatives.

In this role you will:

• Be based in London Heathrow with coverage of all UK stations.
• Develop and execute HR strategy across UK operations in collaboration with global partners.
• Lead and inspire the UK HR team across Business Partnering and Talent Acquisition.
• Drive employee engagement through data-driven insights and cultural initiatives.
• Manage union relationships, lead annual pay negotiations, and policy updates.
• Oversee senior-level recruitment, succession planning, and leadership development.
• Ensure compliance with employment law, TUPE, pension legislation, and industry-specific regulations.
• Lead organisational design and change management projects.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with external stakeholders and partners.
• Create and manage the HR department\’s annual budget.

Qualifications

To be considered for the role, you must meet the following requirements:

• Bachelor\’s Degree and 8+ years of work experience in a senior HR leadership role, preferably in a multinational organization.
• Experience working within a multi-stakeholder, complex, and highly regulated operational environment.
• Proven track record in managing complex multi-site change projects and coaching managers through change initiatives.
• Deep knowledge of UK Employment Law, Human Resource Management, and Change Management, including Organisational Development & Design.
• Commercial acumen and the ability to influence at the executive level.
• Experience managing company-wide industrial relations within a unionized environment, including planning and negotiations.

Additional assets:

• CIPD qualification.

At Emirates Group, we\’re committed to providing our employees with opportunities to grow and develop their careers. If you\’re seeking a challenging and rewarding opportunity, apply today and join our team!

Recruitment Process and Timeline

Emirates Group, an international organization with employees from over 170 nationalities, encourages applications globally. Your application begins by applying via the Emirates Group Careers website. Please ensure your CV is up to date. If shortlisted, you will complete a HireVue video interview, followed by an interview with our hiring managers. Successful candidates will receive an offer, and our Onboarding team will facilitate your transition.

Salary & Benefits

Join our growing team and enjoy a competitive remuneration package. Learn more on our website .

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