Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi is looking for an Assistant Director of People & Culture to join our People & Culture team.

Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, demonstrating integrity and respect while acting responsibly? Do you embrace a growth mindset? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional. 

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences located in prime destinations around the world, with a strong development pipeline. Increasingly recognised for creating some of the world’s most sought-after properties, the Group provides legendary service inspired by Asian heritage whilst representing the very cutting-edge of luxury experiences.

Emirates Palace is the definition of an unrivaled Arabian fantasy. From a 1.3 km pristine private beach, landscaped pools and a private marina overlooking a natural bay, the hotel is located in the heart of Abu Dhabi and perfect for a once-in-a lifetime holiday or for events and meetings that make a statement, with some of the city’s largest hotel conference centres. Emirates Palace offers award-winning 5-star luxury hospitality and authentic local experiences with 394 luxurious rooms and suites along with award-winning culinary cuisines.

About the job

Based at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi within the People & Culture Department, the Assistant Director of People & Culture will support the Director of P&C in planning and overseeing the operation of the People & Culture division.

As Assistant Director of People & Culture, you will be responsible for the following duties:

• Supports the Director of People & Culture in developing and implementing the People Strategy
• Carry-out benchmarking/studies to assess feasibility and implementation of various initiatives
• Plans and oversees the functions and performance of the People & Culture team 
• Ensures that all P&C administration procedures are carried out in accordance with hotel, corporate and legal requirements 
• Consistently works to enhance colleagues' retention and escalate issues to the Director of P&C when needed
• Provides coaching, counselling and performance management to divisions and colleagues
• Supports the management and administration of disciplinary and grievance procedures in collaboration with the Director of People & Culture
• Understands and assists in the preparation of the People & Culture CapEx, operational budget and business plan 
• Effectively manages the budget and expenses relevant to P&C and monitors the purchase requests (PRs) in collaboration with the team
• Contributes to the preparation of annual budget manning/forecast headcount and ensures that actual headcount is in line with the business needs.
• Develops and implements People & Culture policies and procedures
• Communicates corporate and local policies and procedures and ensures its implementation
• Drives various P&C projects such as colleagues' outlet, accommodation, locker, activities and others
• Maintains the positive colleagues' relations by prioritizing employee welfare, health, hygiene, and safety
• Upkeeps the colleagues' personal file and P&C records according to corporate standards and legal requirements
• Develops and updates job descriptions in line with corporate guidelines, and they have been reviewed by the respective Division Heads
• Ensures administrative procedures and equipment are up-to-date and efficient

As Assistant Director of People & Culture, we expect from you:

• A minimum 2 years’ experience in the same role within five-star luxury hotel/property
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. 
• Proven record and great ability in spearheading projects
• Excellent organizational skills and able to work simultaneously with several projects
• Ability to think and plan strategically
• Quality driven with a passion for excellence 
• Ability to multi-task and delegate
• Effective communication skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Basic knowledge and understanding of other departments

Our commitment to you

• Learning & Development. Your success is our success. We craft unique learning and development programmes for various stages in your career so that you grow, continuously.
• MOstay. When you work as hard as our colleagues do, it’s important to take time off. As a member of the #MOfamily, you can stay with us wherever you go in the world. The MOstay programme offers complimentary nights and additionally attractive rates on rooms for you and your loved ones.
• Heath & Colleague Wellness. Finding the right work-life balance is important. Your wellbeing matters to us. A variety of health benefits and wellness programmes are offered to all our colleagues, globally.
• Retirement Plans. When you show commitment to us, we reciprocate. We offer different retirement plans depending on the length of your service and your role.