Emirates strengthens human resources to drive growth

One of the fastest-growing airlines in today's aviation world, Emirates employs over 33,000 staff and recruits almost 600 new candidates every month. The airline's blistering growth calls for increased focus on recruitment, development and retention of people: a company's most valuable asset.

A 17-year veteran at Emirates, Bin Kherbash began his career as a commercial trainee in the airline, and progressed rapidly to head its operations in key markets in the Middle East and Europe. Subsequently he returned to Emirates' Dubai Headquarters as General Manager, Commercial Operations Middle East and Africa.

Most recently, as Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations Africa, Bin Kherbash led the expansion of Emirates in the continent by launching services to Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Cote I'Voire, and expanding existing operations in Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria and Ghana.

In his new position, Bin Kherbash will be responsible for Learning & Development; Employee Services; National Recruitment & Development; and UAE National Pension. He will report to Abdulaziz Al Ali, Executive Vice President Human Resources.

Bin Kherbash's appointment will provide further momentum to Emirates' already-strong national recruitment programme. The airline, a robust supporter of the government's Emiratisation policies, works jointly with Tanmia and Emirates National Development Programme (ENDP) to boost training and employment opportunities for UAE nationals. It also has a dedicated National Recruitment and Development department, aided by an Dhs60m budget, that conducts road shows, school visits, summer training, and participates in the annual Careers UAE Exhibition.

Bin Kherbash noted: "I am honoured to be given an opportunity to lead HR Development & Employee Services at Emirates. In today's competitive environment, the biggest challenge for a rapidly-expanding multinational is the shortage of talent. Recruiting and retaining people of a high calibre are key to Emirates' growth. Equally important is nurturing people's potential and steering them towards excellence."

Backed by strong experience in developing core commercial teams in outstation markets, and currently supported by a dedicated group of professionals, Bin Kherbash is confident of facing the challenges ahead.

"We will continue to leverage our HR policies and practices to drive growth and business results for Emirates," he concluded.