Cluster Director of People & Culture, Raffles & Fairmont the Red Sea

RAFFLES; Umluj; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A luxury hotel brand in Umluj, Saudi Arabia, seeks an experienced People & Culture Director to lead strategy during the pre-opening phase. Responsibilities include ensuring compliance with labor laws, designing employee development programs, and fostering a positive workplace culture. Candidates must have 8-10 years of progressive HR experience, primarily in luxury hospitality, and a relevant degree. Fluency in English is essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8-10 years in human resources leadership, including 3-5 years as a Director.
• Proven experience in luxury hospitality.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of additional languages is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the People & Culture strategy during pre-opening.
• Ensure compliance with Saudi labor laws and Saudization targets.
• Design and implement the learning and development plan.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Business acumen

Financial acumen

Education

Bachelor's degree in People & Culture or Business

Master's degree or People & Culture certification

Job description

Job Description

• Lead the People & Culture strategy during the pre-opening phase, aligning with brand values and owner objectives.
• Develop and execute the pre-opening manning plan, recruitment, and onboarding of all team members.
• Ensure compliance with Saudi labor law, Saudization targets, and all related government requirements.
• Establish People & Culture policies, systems, and employee services including housing and welfare.
• Design and implement the pre-opening learning and development plan, embedding brand culture and service excellence.
• Build a positive, inclusive workplace culture that attracts, retains, and engages top talent.
• Partner with the Resort Manager and Managing Directorand leadership team to ensure full operational readiness at opening.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive People & Culture strategy that supports the hotel’s business objectives and enhances the employee experience.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the leadership team, providing guidance on all People & Culture-related matters, including organisational design, performance management, and employee relations.
• Champion the Raffles & Fairmont brand culture and values, ensuring they are integrated into all People & Cultureprograms and initiatives.
• Oversee all aspects of the talent lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, and succession planning.
• Develop and implement programs to attract and retain top talent in the luxury hospitality market.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and professional development for all employees.
• Build and maintain a positive and inclusive work environment, addressing employee concerns and resolving conflicts effectively.
• Lead all employee engagement initiatives, including surveys, recognition programs, and communication forums.
• Ensure compliance with all labor laws, company policies, and ethical standards.
• Manage the People & Culture budget and oversee People & Cultureadministration, including payroll, benefits, and HRIS.
• Analyze People & Culturemetrics to identify trends and make data-driven decisions that improve efficiency and effectiveness.
• Collaborate with corporate and regional People & Cultureteams to implement brand-wide initiatives and best practices.

Qualifications

• Experience : A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in a human resources leadership role, with at least 3-5 years as a Director or similar senior capacity within the luxury hospitality industry.
• Luxury Expertise : Proven track record of successfully leading People & Culturefunctions in a high-end hotel or resort.
• Skills : Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Strong business and financial acumen.
• Education : Bachelor's degree in People & Culture, Business, or a related field is required. A Master's degree or professional People & Culturecertification (e.g., PHR, SPHR, CIPD) is preferred.
• Language : Fluency in English is essential. Additional languages are an asset.