Advisory Consultant (Contractor)

Network opportunity, not a vacancy

About Foreground

Engagement parameters

• Work model may be on-site, remote, or hybrid depending on client requirements.
• Geography may include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and broader GCC and MENA markets.
• Engagement duration varies by project scope and is typically 4 to 16 weeks.
• The role overview lists independent contractor, project-based engagements; network membership itself is not employment.

Typical advisory project scopes

• Develop HR strategy, function design, capability gap analysis, and HR operating models.
• Support organization design and restructuring, including spans and layers, role architecture, and governance.
• Conduct workforce planning and talent analytics, including headcount modeling and succession readiness assessments.
• Develop HR policies and frameworks aligned with UAE Labor Law and regional regulation.
• Design performance management systems and support implementation.
• Advise on employee engagement, culture assessments, employer brand diagnostics, and organizational change.
• Conduct compensation and benefits benchmarking, job evaluation, and reward framework design.
• Support HR due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and carve-outs.
• Develop Emiratisation and nationalization strategies, talent pipelines, and integration plans.

What the network looks for

• At least 8 years of progressive experience in HR advisory, organizational effectiveness, or people consulting.
• GCC or MENA client exposure and understanding of regional regulatory, cultural, and organizational contexts.
• Experience leading or significantly contributing to client-facing advisory engagements.
• Ability to turn strategic intent into actionable frameworks, tools, and implementation roadmaps.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, including presentations to C-suite and board-level audiences.
• Commercial awareness and ability to scope, price, and deliver work independently within agreed parameters.
• English fluency is required; Arabic proficiency is a significant advantage.
• CIPD, SHRM, HRCI, GPHR, or equivalent professional credentials are an advantage.

Project fees

• Project fees may be negotiated as market-referenced day rates or project fees, depending on scope and seniority.
• Payment is milestone- or completion-based, with invoice and settlement terms specified in the agreement.

How project engagements work

Network membership application

• Applicants are asked to submit a current CV focused on advisory engagements, a brief note on expertise and availability, preferred working geography, and an indication of day-rate or project-fee range.