Big Mamma Group is a passionate team of over 2,300 individuals behind 30 iconic Italian restaurants and food markets across Europe and the Middle East, including the UK, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Ireland, Monaco, and now Dubai. Serving over 10,000 guests daily, the company delivers authentic, joyful Italian experiences with 100% homemade and fresh products imported directly from Italy. Big Mamma is opening its first restaurant in Dubai’s DIFC and is building a dynamic, multicultural team to bring its unique hospitality experience to the region.

Role Overview:
The People Partner – Dubai will act as the go-to HR and talent partner for all team members in Dubai, supporting the full employee lifecycle. This pivotal role combines talent acquisition, HR operations, employee engagement, and leadership support in a fast-paced, start-up restaurant environment. The People Partner will work closely with the COO and local management team to build and grow Big Mamma’s Dubai Squadra.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary HR contact for all Dubai team members, supporting recruitment, onboarding, and employee lifecycle management.

• Lead talent acquisition initiatives, sourcing and hiring top talent aligned with Big Mamma culture.

• Ensure compliance with UAE labor law and DIFC regulations, including contracts, visas, and work permits, in partnership with external providers.

• Coordinate with Finance on payroll and ensure accurate employee data management.

• Partner with managers on employee relations, performance management, and development discussions.

• Drive initiatives to foster employee engagement, retention, and team culture.

• Be a visible presence in the restaurant, supporting and advising staff on the ground.

Skills & Qualifications:

• 4–6 years of HR experience, preferably in hospitality, retail, or other fast-paced, people-led industries.

• Proven expertise in recruitment and talent acquisition.

• Solid knowledge of UAE labor law, DIFC regulations, visas, and work permits.

• Strong HR operations skills, including contracts, compliance, and HR systems.

• Experience partnering with senior management and providing HR guidance.

• Excellent communication and influencing skills across multicultural teams.

• Organized, adaptable, proactive, and solution-oriented.

• Fluent in English; Italian is a plus.

• Knowledge of Blizimbly is advantageous.

What We Offer:

• A key role in launching Big Mamma’s first Middle Eastern restaurant.

• Exposure to senior leadership and opportunity to shape the Dubai People function.

• Competitive compensation and benefits aligned with market standards.

• A people-first, collaborative, and growth-oriented culture.