Saad Alqahtani CIPD - PMP

HIGHLIGHTS: ✪ Managing HR operations for 700+ employees across Saudi Arabia. ✪ Leading workforce optimization and manpower cost control initiatives aligned with business targets ✪ Launched engagement programs improving retention and satisfaction scores. ✪ Reduced employee attrition and improved workforce stability through structured HR strategies. ✪ Drove DEI initiatives to strengthen culture and belonging. ✪ Streamlined appraisal process with continuous feedback mechanisms. ✪ Introduced manager coaching tools, enhancing accountability. ✪ Partnered with Coursera/others to launch role-based learning paths. ✪ Elevated learning adoption and tracked L&D ROI. ✪ Led compensation benchmarking and internal parity reviews. ✪ Optimized pay structures and improved benefit coverage at lower cost. ✪ Built dashboards for hiring, attrition, and L&D metrics. ✪ Delivered insights for strategic decision-making at leadership level. ✪ Ensured 100% compliance in HR audits. ✪ Handled sensitive investigations with confidentiality and integrity. KEY RESULT AREAS: Managed the full spectrum of HR operations including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, learning & development, compensation, policy compliance, and HR reporting. Ensured smooth talent acquisition and induction, maintained a positive and compliant workplace culture, facilitated appraisal cycles and PIPs, coordinated training programs, administered payroll and benefits, and upheld adherence to labor laws and internal policies. Consistently monitored key HR metrics to support data-driven decision-making and enhance operational efficiency.

HR Leader with over 24+ years of experience driving HR transformation, workforce optimization, and business-aligned people strategies across the retail and diversified sectors in Saudi Arabia. Proven track record in managing large-scale HR operations, leading teams, and aligning HR initiatives with business growth and operational excellence. Successfully led workforce scaling initiatives from 1,600 to 4,600 employees while improving hiring quality and operational efficiency. Experienced in reducing HR costs, enhancing employee engagement, and implementing performance-driven cultures. Strong expertise in: • HR Transformation & Organizational Development • Led workforce optimization initiatives reducing attrition from 12% to 8% • Talent Acquisition & Leadership Development • Employee Relations & Labor Law Compliance (KSA) • Performance Management & HR Analytics Known for delivering measurable business impact, improving attrition, optimizing manpower costs, and supporting EBITDA-focused strategies. Passionate about building high-performance cultures and positioning HR as a strategic business partner.

HIGHLIGHTS: ✪ Achieved 95% audition success rate by 2021, up from 35% in 2017, while growing staff from 1600 to 4600, with 95% Saudi nationals. ✪ Efficiently managed fines, minimizing costs and resolving issues swiftly. ✪ Implemented cost-saving people management practices, significantly reducing HR budget. ✪ Established clear target-setting and regular performance reviews. ✪ Drove organizational development through competency frameworks and best practice benchmarking. ✪ Developed an integrated performance management and reward system. ✪ Created annual manpower plans for effective cost management. ✪ Led initiatives for a positive work culture, boosting morale and ensuring succession planning. KEY RESULT AREAS: As the leader of Human Capital Operations, I spearhead initiatives to recruit, develop, and align talent across our retail locations in Jeddah, Makkah, Taif, Madden, Tabuk, Abha, Al Baha, Jazan, and Yanbu, driving store success. By devising HR strategies tailored to our business goals, I ensure our workforce remains engaged and motivated. Regular visits to all sites underscore commitment to employee well-being. Overseeing diverse HR functions including employee relations, talent management, payroll, and government liaisons, cultivate a positive workplace culture. Collaborate closely with the management, I've instituted a robust metrics system to evaluate team performance and efficiency. Additionally, I lead the integrated performance management system, setting standards, offering feedback, and recognizing excellence. Strategic budgeting and manpower planning guarantee optimal resource utilization, while my focus on facilities and talent acquisition enhances the corporate brand. Through ongoing education and change management, I empower managers to refine recruitment, training, and performance appraisal processes. By fostering a culture of growth and succession planning, I position the organization as a preferred employer in the retail sector.

Scaled workforce from 1,600 to 4,600 (95% Saudi nationals) and improved audition success rates from 35% to 95% by 2021 through strategic hiring and capability-building initiatives. Minimized penalties and compliance risks by leveraging government networks to resolve issues swiftly and avoid financial liabilities. Reduced HR operating costs by implementing best-in-class people practices and driving organization-wide cost optimization programs. Institutionalized performance alignment by rolling out structured target-setting frameworks at departmental, functional, and individual levels with monthly review mechanisms. Led OD initiatives using competency frameworks, benchmarking, and competitive analysis to enhance agility and capability. Designed an integrated Performance Management System linking rewards to measurable outcomes, reinforcing a high-performance culture. Developed manpower planning tools, enabling departments to manage headcount and employment costs more effectively. Fostered a positive work culture through training, performance management, and succession planning—ensuring continuity in key leadership roles.

HIGHLIGHTS: ✪ Developed and deployed a comprehensive performance management framework, automating goal setting to monthly reviews with advanced analytics integration. ✪ Directed HRIS system and automation strategies, optimizing both strategic planning and day-to-day operations. ✪ Innovated recognition programs to bolster our Employer Value Proposition (EVP) and promote a culture of appreciation. ✪ Enhanced morale through targeted training and succession planning initiatives, fostering a dynamic workplace environment. ✪ Implemented data-driven training aligned with business goals and OD strategies, advancing employee skill sets efficiently. KEY RESULT AREAS: As the architect of HR strategy at the executive level, I've led groundbreaking initiatives that shape our organization's vision and mission. From crafting comprehensive plans aligned with our business objectives to meticulously overseeing their implementation with precision, I ensure our HR policies are not only effective but indispensable to our success. Additionally, I've orchestrated annual reviews, promotions, and compensation analyses, harnessing both internal and external resources to establish a robust framework for performance assessment. Collaborating closely with the Senior HR Manager and General Manager, I've played a pivotal role in achieving our staffing goals while also spearheading company-wide efforts in organizational and leadership development. By partnering with Finance to budget for personnel expenses, I ensure workforce remains dynamic & financially sustainable. Moreover, I'm at the forefront of cultural change, deftly enforcing discipline procedures, managing compensation and benefits, and adeptly addressing human relations issues while enhancing employee training and performance. Additionally, I oversee transport services, prioritizing safe and convenient support to promote employee well-being and engagement, fostering a culture of care and inclusivity in the organization.

Implemented an automated performance management system, streamlining goal setting, reviews, and analytics for improved accountability. Led HRIS rollout and automation, enhancing operational efficiency and strategic workforce planning. Revamped recognition programs, boosting engagement and strengthening the Employer Value Proposition (EVP). Enhanced morale and retention through targeted training and succession planning initiatives. Executed business-aligned, data-driven training programs to upskill talent and support OD goals.