PEOPLE PARTNER – DUBAI

PEOPLE PARTNER – DUBAI (DIFC)Ready to bring the Big Mamma spirit to the Middle East with heart, hustle, and homemade pasta?Big Mamma is a Squadra of more than 2,300 passionate individuals behind 30 iconic Italian restaurants and food markets across Europe and the Middle East (UK, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Ireland, Monaco – and now Dubai!). With over 10,000 guests a day, we deliver joyful, authentic Italian experiences – 100% homemade, 100% fresh, with products imported directly from Italy.We’re opening our very first restaurant in Dubai, based in the iconic DIFC, and we’re looking for a People Partner – Dubai to support our teams and leadership from day one. This is a pivotal role combining talent acquisition, HR operations, employee engagement, and leadership support in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.You will work closely with the COO and local management team, acting as a trusted advisor while building and growing our Dubai Squadra.???? Your MissionAct as the go-to People Partner for all team members in Dubai, supporting the full employee lifecycleLead recruitment: source, attract, and hire top talent in line with Big Mamma’s culture and standardsManage onboarding and ensure smooth integration of new hires into the Big Mamma way of workingEnsure compliance with UAE labour law and DIFC regulations, including contracts, visas, and work permits, in partnership with external providersAct as the HR link with Finance on payroll, ensuring all employee data (new hires, leavers, changes) is accurate and timelyPartner with managers on employee relations, performance management, and development conversationsDrive People initiatives that foster team culture, engagement, and retentionBe a visible presence in the restaurant, building relationships and supporting the team on the ground???? Your Profile4–6 years’ experience in HR, ideally in hospitality, retail, or another fast-paced, people-led industryProven recruitment / talent acquisition experience – ability to source, attract, and hire in competitive marketsSolid knowledge of UAE labour law, DIFC practices, visas, and work permitsStrong HR operations experience: contracts, visas, employee lifecycle management, compliance, and HR systemsKnowledge of Blizimbly would be a plusFluent in English (Italian is a bonus!)Experience partnering with senior management and providing clear HR guidanceStrong communication and influencing skills across multicultural teamsOrganised, adaptable, and comfortable working in a start-up opening environmentProactive and solution-oriented, with a practical, can-do attitude???? What We OfferA key role in the launch of Big Mamma’s first Middle Eastern restaurantExposure to senior leadership & opportunity to help shape our Dubai People functionCompetitive package & benefits in line with market standardsA people-first culture where passion, growth, and teamwork thrive???? Join Our SquadraIf you’re ready to take on a high-impact role, shaping the People function in a brand-new market and bringing Big Mamma’s culture to life in Dubai, we’d love to hear from you!???? Big Mamma is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.???? Big Mamma is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employ