Continued Investment, Development and Omanisation Underpin Key Role of Human Resources Department
Oman Air’s senior management has credited the airline’s continuing success to the dedication of its staff, and has reaffirmed its commitment to developing a supportive and competitive workplace environment across its 42-destination global network.
They said that increased salaries, improved policies and procedures and an accelerated Omanisation programme, together with the sustained professionalism of employees, have helped to expand Oman Air’s customer base and build a distinctive identity for the company.
Sheikh Ahmed Bin Himyar Al Nabhani, Chief Officer Support Services, said: “Oman Air has carved a unique niche in the international airline industry and has developed an enviable reputation for quality. As a result, many people choose to fly with Oman Air and to recommend the airline to others.
“I would like to express my thanks to all those employees whose commitment and creativity have made such an invaluable contribution to Oman Air’s growth and commercial success. I would particularly like to thank our growing Omani workforce for their dedication in ensuring that Oman Air is not only a highly successful business, but also one which builds on their skills, abilities and experience to become a true expression of Omani culture on the world stage.
“In recognition of this remarkable effort, we have been pleased to increase salaries, invest in training and introduce a range of policies and procedures that will support employees in their careers and ensure that Oman Air continues to have one of the best staff teams in the industry.”
Between December 2010 and March 2013, salaries at Oman Air have increased by an average of 36%, with even the lowest-paid roles paying significantly more than the statutory minimum. Employer’s contributions to Social Insurance have also increased.
Additionally, a range of robust procedures covering areas such as recruitment and grievances have been introduced and are working well. Oman Air’s Human Resources department has defined the required qualifications and experience for all jobs in the company, with Chief Officer positions demanding an MBA, other leadership positions needing a degree and officer and supervisor roles requiring a diploma. When vacancies are available they are published on the company’s intranet, stating the vacancies and the requirements for the vacant post. If there is no availability of suitable candidates within the company, the post is advertised in the local and international media.
The Human Resources department has also established an Employee Relations unit, which handles and investigates complaints, whilst a Grievance Committee, chaired by Her Excellency Maitha Mahrouquih, Vice Chairman of the Board of Oman Air, has been set up with every member of staff having the right submit a complaint and have it receive the immediate attention of the highest executive authorities within the company.
Significantly, Oman Air’s Omanisation policy, introduced in response to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos’s policy of improving employment opportunities and career development for Omani citizens, has resulted in significant changes. The Omani employees’ percentage increased to 66% at end of 2012. A total of 456 positions previously filled by expatriates are now held by suitable Omani staff during the last 3 years, whilst a further 671 Omanis have received promotions since Oct 2011 to end of March 2013.
Oman Air’s Chief Officer Support Services, Sheikh Ahmed Nabhani, concluded that Oman Air “…has a highly efficient workforce of trained personnel at all levels, and Oman Air would not be flying so high without the dedication and devotion of all its staff. They are the permanent assets of the company and the cornerstone on which the progress and prosperity of Oman Air are built. Oman Air is proud of each individual, and we are confident that no achievement is too great and no horizon too distant, as long as our staff remain our driving force.”
