HR Executive

Together, Cognita schools provide a uniquely global education that goes beyond grades, developing academic excellence alongside adaptability, agency, and the positive attitudes that prepare young people to grow, thrive, and find success in a rapidly evolving world. Cognita Middle East has 14 schools within its portfolio, across the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman. At Cognita, we know every student is unique.

We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they’re starting from. We protect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger; ensuring they get an education that’s, quite literally, world class.

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We are looking for a passionate and experienced HR Executive to join our regional team, based in Media City in Dubai. As HR Executive, you will be at the heart of our people operations, supporting employees across multiple schools. This is a dynamic generalist HR role, ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, loves variety, and wants to make a real impact.

• Maintain accurate employee records and HR databases across the employee lifecycle
• Respond promptly to employee queries in line with SLAs
• Administer HR policies, procedures, and employee benefits
• Draft employee communications including letters, NOCs, certificates, and contracts
• Oversee visa/work permit/medical insurance processes and renewals
• Track employee attendance, leave, training, and performance review documentation
• Support payroll inputs and verify processing accuracy
• Prepare HR reports and audit-ready documentation
• Contribute to HR systems improvement and employee engagement initiatives

• Provide clear, professional HR advice on matters such as performance, grievance, and disciplinary
• Act as the first point of contact for ER issues, escalating where appropriate
• Maintain documentation in compliance with UAE Labour Law and company policy
• Support Heads of HR with administrative tasks as needed

• Manage end-to-end offboarding, including EOSB, visa and insurance cancellation
• Ensure a smooth and compliant separation process for all employees

• Experience in a generalist HR role covering the full employee lifecycle (education sector experience is a plus)
• Knowledge of UAE Labour Law (GCC experience a bonus)
• Strong organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, work across different locations, and meet deadlines
• Experience with database systems and HRIS tools

The company reserves the right to interview and appoint strong candidates before the official closing date, and therefore we would encourage candidates to apply early in the process.

Cognita is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expects the same from its employees. All new staff will be subject to detailed and enhanced pre-employment clearance, including identity checks, criminal background checks for all countries lived in, qualification checks, employment checks to include an exploration of any gaps in employment, and satisfactory reference checks for all employment in the last 10 years.