Director, People & Culture

Fairmont The Palm is a luxury, world-class resort located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah Island in Dubai. The hotel features 391 guest rooms and suites with dedicated Fairmont Gold rooms and lounge. A total of 11 food and beverage outlets on property offer international dining options including Michelin Guide recommended 2022 and 2023 Little Miss India, Frevo - Brazilian Churrasco experience, Seagrill Bistro, Ba Restaurant and Lounge, Blowfish, Flow Kitchen, The Cigar Room, Vuvuzela and others. Fairmont The Palm also features an expansive pool and beach area with a health club, Serenity Spa Dubai - The Art Of Well Being and the Fairmont Falcons Kids’ Club.

• Develop and implement P&C strategies aligned with the overall business objectives and goals.
• Collaborate with executive leaders to ensure that P&C initiatives align with the organization's objectives
• Manage employee relations, address concerns, conflicts, and promote a positive workplace culture.
• Collaborate with leaders to promptly and efficiently investigate, document, and implement corrective actions, aiming to achieve the shared objectives of the business and Heartists in accordance with the company policy and the UAE Labor Law.
• Handle disciplinary problems and counsel Heartists and leaders.
• Implement effective communication to foster a transparent and open dialogue between Heartists and management.
• Promote and foster a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.
• Implement initiatives to enhance diversity and equity within the hotel.
• Enhance, cultivate, and execute P&C policies and procedures to ensure legal compliance and consistency across the departments.
• Stay abreast of relevant employment laws and regulations, adapting policies accordingly. Mitigate legal risks by staying informed about changes in legislation and advising leaders and General Manager accordingly.
• Ensure compliance with UAE Labor Law regulations, and ethical standards at all time.
• Advocate for the processes, ensuring that leaders comprehend their role in the procedure and uphold fair treatment of Heartists.
• Oversee people acquisition, recruitment, and onboarding processes to attract and retain top people through INES.
• Facilitate performance management processes, including goal setting, performance reviews, and Heartists development plans.
• Develop and manage competitive compensation and benefits programs.
• Oversee the implementation of annual increases and other wage adjustments.
• Monitor market trends and conduct regular benchmarking to ensure the organization remains competitive in attracting and retaining Heartists.
• Develop and implement comprehensive L&D strategies to address skill gaps and enhance Heartists’ capabilities.
• Collaborate with departments to ensure L&D initiatives align with organizational goals.
• Utilize innovative learning technologies and methodologies for effective training programs.
• Oversee the implementation and utilization of P&C technology systems for efficient P&C processes.
• Leverage data and analytics to make informed decisions and provide insights into workforce trends.
• Lead and develop a high-performing P&C team, providing guidance, support, and mentorship to drive professional growth and development.
• Oversee accurate and timely payroll processing in compliance with local regulations and company policies.
• Develop and manage the payroll and P&C operations annual budget, ensuring cost control.
• Lead P&C forecasting and manpower planning in line with business strategy.
• Actively participate in monthly Business Review Meetings (BRM), providing insights on labor costs, L&D and P&C initiatives.

• Minimum 6 years’ experience in People & Culture role, with experience in a leadership/management capacity.
• Previous experience within hospitality.
• Strong knowledge of various computer programs is a must. Demonstrated knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint) is required.
• Degree or diploma in a related field is an asset, as well as CPHR designation or working towards this designation.
• Proven communication and interpersonal skills (both written & verbal) with the ability to develop excellent relationships across the organizations while maintaining confidentiality.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative while maintaining attention to detail in a fast paced environment.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills
• Highly responsible & reliable
• Ability to work cohesively as part of a team
• Knowledge of the UAE Law.