Director Talent & Culture (HR)

As a pioneer in the art of responsible hospitality, the Accor Group gathers more than 45 brands, 5,600 hotels, 10,000 restaurants, and lifestyle destinations in 110 countries. While each brand has its own personality, where you will be able to truly find yourself, they all share a common ambition: to keep innovating and challenging the status-quo.​

By joining us, you will become a Heartist®, because hospitality is, first and foremost, a work of heart.​

We are seeking an innovative and visionary Director of Talent & Culture (HR) to join the pre-opening leadership team at Mercure Khiva, Uzbekistan. This is a unique opportunity to shape the people strategy of a brand-new hotel under the globally recognized Accor brand — right from the start.

As a key member of the senior leadership team, you will be instrumental in building the organizational culture, driving employee engagement, and implementing strategic HR initiatives that align with our pre-opening objectives and long-term business goals.

💼 Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute comprehensive HR strategies that support the hotel's mission and opening objectives

• Lead and mentor the Talent & Culture team, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment

• Design and implement innovative talent acquisition, retention, and development programs tailored to pre-opening and operational phases

• Oversee performance management processes, ensuring consistency and fairness across all departments

• Spearhead employee engagement initiatives and monitor their effectiveness using surveys and analytics

• Manage the HR budget efficiently, aligning resources with key organizational goals

• Ensure compliance with Uzbekistan labor laws and regulations, staying current with any changes

• Collaborate closely with senior leadership on workforce planning and organizational development

• Champion the adoption of HR technology solutions to enhance process efficiency and data-driven decision-making

• Act as a trusted advisor to key stakeholders, building strong internal relationships

• Lead change management initiatives during both pre-opening and operational transitions

• Promote a culture of continuous learning, diversity, and inclusion throughout the property

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; Master's degree preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in Talent & Culture (Human Resources), with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful HR strategies and policies
• In-depth knowledge of Uzbekistan labor laws and regulations
• HR certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SPHR) 
• Extensive experience in training and development, performance management, and organizational development
• Strong conflict management and problem-solving skills
• Excellent knowledge of labor laws and their practical application
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and HR information systems
• Experience with HR analytics tools and data-driven decision-making
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams in a fast-paced environment
• Fluency in English (verbal & written); knowledge of Uzbek or Russian is a plus
• Highly responsible, reliable, and able to maintain confidentiality
• Innovative thinker with a passion for creating a positive and engaging workplace culture