Graduate Program Manager

Purpose of the Role

To design, implement, and manage Aramex’s Graduate Development Program (GDP) tailored specifically for UAE Nationals, supporting the company’s Emiratization strategy. The role focuses on identifying and nurturing high-potential Emirati graduates and preparing them for leadership and critical roles across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Program Design & Development

• Develop the structure, curriculum, and branding of the Emirati Graduate Development Program.
• Align learning objectives with business strategy, UAE talent development goals, and national Emiratization initiatives.
• Design structured rotational programs, learning modules, project assignments, and certification tracks.

Recruitment & Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with Talent Acquisition and Employer Branding to attract top-tier Emirati graduates.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with UAE universities, Nafis, and local career centers.
• Represent Aramex at career fairs, university events, and Emiratization forums.

Program Management & Execution

• Manage onboarding, induction, and career pathing for GDP participants.
• Serve as the main point of contact for all graduate trainees.
• Organize and facilitate leadership talks, site visits, training sessions, and cross-functional projects.
• Ensure successful integration of graduates into business functions through structured rotations.

Tracking, Coaching, and Continuous Improvement

• Provide ongoing coaching and support to participants, mentors, and line managers.
• Monitor and report on KPI progress, performance metrics, and development milestones.
• Conduct regular feedback cycles with graduates, coaches, and business stakeholders.
• Continuously enhance the program based on stakeholder input and business outcomes.

Collaboration & Communication

• Partner with L&D, Talent Management, and Emiratization teams for seamless program delivery.
• Engage senior leadership to secure meaningful project exposure and mentorship opportunities.
• Provide quarterly dashboards, insights, and reports to HR leadership and business heads.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, Education, or a related field (Master’s degree is a plus).
• 5–7 years of experience in talent development, graduate program management, or Emiratization-focused roles.
• Proven ability to design and manage high-potential development pipelines.
• Knowledge of UAE labor law, Nafis platform, and national Emiratization frameworks.
• Strong program/project management skills with demonstrated stakeholder engagement.

Key Competencies & Skills

Leadership Behaviors

• Building Outstanding Teams
• Collaboration & Cross-functional Influence
• Execution & Accountability
• External Focus (Employer Branding / Partnerships)
• Growth Mindset
• Inclusion & Diversity
• Innovation & Simplification
• Clear Direction Setting

Technical & Interpersonal Skills

• Analytical Thinking & Data-Driven Decision Making
• Stakeholder Management & Negotiation
• Strategic Planning & Organizational Skills
• Strong Communication & Conflict Resolution
• Continuous Improvement Focus
• Team Leadership & Coaching Ability
• Performance Metrics Design & Reporting