Director of Human Resources – Pre-Opening Luxury Hotel

About the role

Lead the people strategy for the pre‑opening and operational phases of the Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah, a flagship luxury hotel slated to open in 2027. As a strategic partner to the General Manager and Executive Committee, you will shape the cultural foundation and drive a high‑performance environment.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement HR strategy aligned with brand standards and business goals.
• Establish HR structures, policies, and governance complying with UAE legislation.
• Act as strategic business partner to senior leadership.
• Lead end‑to‑end talent acquisition for the pre‑opening phase.
• Oversee onboarding, training, and leadership development programs.
• Strengthen employee engagement through innovative initiatives.
• Ensure full compliance with UAE labour law and manage employee relations.
• Own HR budgets, workforce planning, KPIs, and people analytics.

Required profile

• Proven senior HR leadership experience in luxury hospitality with pre‑opening exposure.
• Strong knowledge of Dubai/UAE market and labour law.
• Ability to balance strategic and operational HR in a dynamic environment.
• Experience in talent acquisition, culture building, and leadership development.
• Degree in Human Resources, Business, Psychology, Law or related field.
• Fluent English; Arabic beneficial but not mandatory.

What we offer

• Competitive tax‑free salary.
• Comprehensive medical and life insurance.
• Duty meals, annual leave and public holidays per UAE Labour Law.
• Access to learning, leadership development, and global career opportunities.
• Employee rates and exclusive discounts across Meliá Hotels worldwide.
• Recognition programs celebrating excellence and achievement.