People and Culture Manager

Fairmont La Hacienda will offer guests one of the most exclusive resorts in southern Spain.

Situated on the San Roque coast, in a unique and privileged enclave near Sotogrande, it features a luxurious 5-star hotel and branded residences, showcasing breathtaking sea views.

Guests at Fairmont La Hacienda will indulge in a luxury resort experience with access to pools, a spa, fitness facilities, a grand ballroom, and flexible meeting spaces.

Surrounded by two of southern Europe's most renowned golf courses, the hotel provides an exclusive retreat for golf enthusiasts, beach lovers, and discerning travelers. 

Reporting to the Director of People & Culture, the Assistant Director of P&C supports the definition and implementation of the hotel’s People & Culture strategy, acting as a key partner to the leadership team and operational leaders. The role combines operational leadership, strategic support, and day-to-day departmental oversight, ensuring compliance with corporate policies, applicable labor laws, and the excellence standards of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

This position plays a critical role in labor relations management, Heartist experience, talent development, and the proper execution of People & Culture processes, acting as a substitute for the Director when required.

Key Responsibilities and Essential Functions

People & Culture Leadership and Operations

• Support the Director of People & Culture in the planning, development, and execution of the annual P&C strategy.

• Oversee daily departmental operations, ensuring a professional, confidential, and Heartist-focused service.

• Lead, coordinate, and develop the P&C team, fostering a culture of high performance, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Act as a visible P&C ambassador within the hotel, building trusted relationships with leaders and Heartists.

• Act as a substitute for the Director of P&C in their absence and represent the department in leadership meetings when required.

Labor Relations and Compliance

• Support and actively participate in labor relations management, including unionized environments where applicable.

• Advise leaders and Heartists on the correct interpretation and application of collective bargaining agreements, internal policies, and labor legislation.

• Manage and support disciplinary processes, workplace investigations, and conflict resolution, ensuring fairness and legal compliance.

• Ensure compliance with all Accor/Fairmont corporate policies and local labor regulations.

• Oversee the management of absences, sick leave, permits, vacations, and, where applicable, compensation, within the Factorial HR system.

Talent Management and Employee Lifecycle

• Support the Director in defining and executing talent attraction and retention strategies.

• Oversee onboarding processes, orientation, and the Heartist experience.

• Support performance management, talent reviews, and career development processes.

• Collaborate in the implementation of recognition, engagement, and wellbeing programs.

• Act as a liaison with internal committees (Safety, CSR, etc.).

Administration, Systems, and Reporting

• Oversee proper personnel administration and maintenance of employee records and files.

• Ensure accuracy of data within HR systems (HRIS), including employee movements, benefits, and payroll audits.

• Support the preparation and monitoring of the P&C budget, as well as monthly reporting and forecasting.

• Coordinate and follow up on internal and external HR audits.

• Analyze P&C data and KPIs (turnover, headcount, absenteeism, engagement) to support decision-making.

Culture, Engagement, and Events

• Support and oversee the planning and execution of Heartist events, internal celebrations, and corporate activities.

• Collaborate in the local implementation of Accor and Fairmont corporate programs and initiatives.

• Actively promote Fairmont values and the Heartist culture in all interactions.

• Ensure effective and consistent internal communication in coordination with the P&C team.

Other Responsibilities

• Participate in special projects and cross-functional hotel initiatives.

• Assist in training, orientation, and development programs as required.

• Comply with all departmental policies, safety procedures, and brand standards.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to carry out each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business Administration, or a related field.

• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, preferably in hospitality or service environments.

• Previous experience in leadership or supervisory HR roles.

• Strong knowledge of Spanish labor law, labor relations, and HR policies.

• Experience in unionized environments.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and influencing skills.

• Ability to handle confidential information with the highest level of discretion.

• Strong service orientation, organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize in dynamic environments.

• Proficiency in HR systems and Microsoft Office.

• Strong analytical skills and financial acumen.

• Communication skills in both English and Spanish.

Physical Requirements

• This position requires the ability to focus attention on the needs of Candidates, Interns, Heartists, Leaders, and Business Partners while maintaining composure and courtesy. Occasionally requires standing, walking, and lifting/carrying up to 20 pounds.

• Perform other reasonable job duties as requested.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Human Resources.

Candidate must be a citizen of the European Union or possess a valid work permit for Spain.

What is in it for you:

• Competitive Salary and Benefits
• Discounted hotel rooms and food and beverage rates to employees at our sister properties around the globe.
• We provide learning programs through our Academies to promote growth and development so that you can perform at your full potential.
• Opportunity to develop your talent and grow within your property and across the world!