UAE-based integrated facilities management firm Emrill has appointed Khadija Alhirey as its new HR Director and member of the executive leadership team. The move signals the company’s renewed focus on strengthening its people strategy while aligning workforce initiatives with long-term business goals.
Focus on Talent Development and Workforce Planning
In her new role, Alhirey will lead the company’s human resources function and drive key initiatives across workforce planning, employee engagement, and leadership development. She will also work closely with senior leadership to build a sustainable talent pipeline that supports Emrill’s expansion plans.
Moreover, she aims to enhance organisational capability by introducing structured training programmes and improving internal career progression pathways. These efforts are expected to boost employee retention while fostering a high-performance culture.
Emiratisation at the Core of Strategy
A major priority for Alhirey will be advancing Emiratisation across the organisation. She plans to promote facilities management as a viable long-term career option for UAE nationals.
To achieve this, Emrill will expand its outreach through university partnerships, early-career programmes, and targeted hiring initiatives. In addition, the company will increase awareness of industry opportunities and encourage local talent to explore diverse career paths within the sector.
Strong HR Leadership Experience Across Sectors
Alhirey brings more than 15 years of HR leadership experience in the UAE. Before joining Emrill, she served as Vice President and Head of Graduate Resourcing at First Abu Dhabi Bank.
Her career also includes senior HR roles at Emirates Flight Catering, part of the Emirates Group, as well as at a leading Abu Dhabi hospital. Throughout her career, she has led HR transformation, workforce planning, and Emiratisation initiatives across multiple industries.
Leadership Commentary on Strategic Appointment
Commenting on the appointment, Emrill CEO Stuart Harrison said the company is confident that Alhirey’s expertise will strengthen its leadership team. He highlighted her proven track record in workforce development and Emiratisation as key assets for the company’s growth.
Alhirey, meanwhile, emphasised the importance of people in the facilities management sector. She noted that building strong talent pipelines and nurturing employee development will remain central to Emrill’s success.
Industry and Academic Contributions
Beyond her corporate role, Alhirey actively contributes to academic and industry development in the UAE. She serves as co-chair of an Industry Advisory Council focused on human resources education.
Additionally, she delivers guest lectures and industry sessions at institutions such as Zayed University, the Higher Colleges of Technology, and the Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Training. Her work focuses on HR leadership, workforce transformation, and Emiratisation.
Academic Credentials
Alhirey holds an Executive MBA from Bayes Business School, City St George’s, University of London. She also earned a Level 7 postgraduate diploma from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Houston–Clear Lake.
