Director of HR - 5* Hotel

My client is a high-end operator, and the role will be based in Al Khobar, KSA. Only candidates with GCC experience will be considered for this role.

The Director of Human Resources is responsible for overseeing all aspects of HR management within the hotel & restaurant, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, training, compliance, and strategic workforce planning.

As a key member of the hotel leadership team, the Director of HR ensures the development of a positive work environment, aligned with the hotel’s standards of excellence and service culture. This role drives HR strategy, contributing to the overall success and operational efficiency of the hotel & restaurant.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic HR Leadership:

• Develop and implement the hotel’s HR strategies in alignment with overall business objectives.

• Provide expert advice and counsel to the senior leadership team on organisational development, workforce planning, and talent management.

• Foster a culture of service excellence, collaboration, and accountability across all levels of the hotel.

Recruitment and Talent Acquisition:

• Lead the recruitment strategy for all levels of hotel staff, from entry-level positions to senior management roles.

• Partner with department heads to identify staffing needs and develop job descriptions that align with hotel standards.

• Oversee the recruitment process, including sourcing, interviewing, and onboarding of new hires.

• Develop talent pipelines to ensure the hotel is prepared for seasonal demands and sudden staffing needs.

Employee Relations and Engagement:

• Cultivate a positive and inclusive work environment that promotes employee engagement, retention, and motivation.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for complex employee relations issues, ensuring timely resolution in accordance with Employment Law and hotel policies.

• Lead employee engagement initiatives, such as recognition programs, team-building activities, and well-being programmes.

Performance Management and Development:

• Design and oversee the hotel’s performance management processes, ensuring all employees receive regular feedback

and development opportunities.

• Partner with department heads to implement performance improvement plans when necessary.

• Drive leadership development programs to build future leaders from within the organisation.

Training and Development:

• Lead the design and execution of comprehensive training programs to ensure staff are equipped to deliver exceptional

guest experiences.

• Oversee compliance training, including health and safety, anti-harassment, and guest service standards.

• Ensure that all employees, including senior staff, receive ongoing professional development aligned with their career

paths.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Oversee the administration of employee compensation and benefits programs, ensuring market competitiveness.

• Review salary structures, employee perks, and benefits to attract and retain top talent.

• Ensure compliance with local Employment Law regarding wages, overtime, benefits, and taxation.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with all relevant National legislation, Employment Law regulations, and company policies.

• Manage employee relations issues and disciplinary actions in a legally compliant and sensitive manner.

• Oversee workplace safety initiatives, including adherence to health and safety regulations, and implement training and

risk management protocols.

HR Reporting and Analytics:

• Develop and maintain HR metrics to track key performance indicators such as turnover rates, employee engagement, absenteeism, and training effectiveness.

• Prepare regular reports for senior management on HR-related issues, including staffing levels, recruitment success, and employee performance trends.

• Use data analytics to improve HR processes and align the HR strategy with business objectives.

Budget and Financial Planning:

• Oversee the HR budget, ensuring cost-effective management of recruitment, training, employee benefits, and HR technology.

• Partner with finance to forecast HR-related costs and manage the budget efficiently.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree or relevant certification (e.g., SHRM, CIPD) is preferred.

• Experience: A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role within

the hospitality industry.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and management capabilities.

• Extensive knowledge of labor laws and HR best practices in the hospitality sector.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.

• Strategic thinking with the ability to align HR practices with business goals.

• Proficiency in HRIS systems and data analytics

Key Competencies:

• Leadership and team management

• Strong ethical standards and integrity

• Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills

• Adaptability and ability to work in a fast-paced environment

• Cultural sensitivity in a diverse workforce

• Excellent organizational and decision-making abilities