Director of Human Resources
As a member of the Executive Committee, the Director of Human Resources leads all HR functions and supports the hotel's overall business objectives. This role is responsible for developing and implementing people strategies that promote a positive work culture, associate engagement, and operational excellence.
The Director of Human Resources oversees all aspects of human resources, including recruitment, employee relations, learning and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, and compliance with local labor laws and regulations. The role ensures HR policies and procedures are consistently applied while maintaining a fair and productive workplace.
Working closely with department leaders, the Director of Human Resources supports both short-term and long-term hotel goals by attracting, developing, and retaining talent. The position plays a key role in shaping the associate experience, driving operational effectiveness, and contributing to the overall success of the hotel.
The ideal candidate is a strong people leader with excellent communication skills, a passion for developing talent, and the ability to build positive relationships across all levels of the hotel.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and execution of the hotel's Human Resources strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives, brand standards, and the overall vision of the hotel.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to the General Manager and Executive Committee on all people-related matters.
- Partner with department leaders to drive workforce planning, talent acquisition, succession planning, and organizational effectiveness.
- Ensure full compliance with local labor laws, government regulations, and company policies while proactively managing employment-related risks.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performance culture that enhances associate engagement, retention, and productivity.
- Oversee recruitment strategies to attract, develop, and retain top talent across all levels of the hotel.
- Lead associate relations initiatives, including coaching, performance management, grievance handling, disciplinary matters, and conflict resolution.
- Champion learning and development programs that support leadership growth, career progression, and operational excellence.
- Monitor key HR metrics, including turnover, engagement, absenteeism, and workforce trends, and implement action plans to improve results.
- Collaborate with the Finance team to ensure effective payroll administration, labor cost management, and workforce budgeting.
- Drive associate engagement, wellbeing, recognition, and wellness initiatives that support a positive employee experience.
- Partner with department leaders to develop future talent pipelines and succession plans for critical roles.
- Promote a safe working environment by ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety requirements.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with hospitality schools, industry networks, and external partners to support recruitment and employer branding.
- Lead and develop the Human Resources team, ensuring high standards of service, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
- Support hotel-wide projects and strategic initiatives as required.
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in a senior Human Resources leadership role within the hospitality industry.
- Strong knowledge of UAE labor law, employment practices, and HR compliance requirements.
- Exceptional leadership, coaching, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to influence and build strong relationships at all levels of the hotel.
- Strong business acumen with an understanding of financial and operational drivers.
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- High level of emotional intelligence and ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
- Proven track record in talent acquisition, employee engagement, succession planning, and organizational development.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret HR data and drive business decisions.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and HR information systems.
- Passion for developing people and creating an outstanding associate experience.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Human Resources, Business Administration, Hotel Management, or a related field.
- Minimum 5 years' experience in a senior Human Resources leadership position, preferably within an international hotel environment.
- Experience working with HR Local system and HR practices is an advantage.
