Director of Human Resources - Pre-Opening, W Manchester

JOB SUMMARY Shape the Culture Behind Manchester's Most Anticipated Hotel Opening A bold new destination is preparing to make its mark on one of the world's most exciting and culturally influential cities. W Manchester represents a significant addition to the luxury lifestyle landscape, bringing the unmistakable energy, creativity and contemporary spirit of W Hotels to the heart of Manchester. Known for its thriving music scene, entrepreneurial mindset and global appeal, Manchester is the ideal setting for a brand that champions individuality and innovation. As a pre-opening hotel, W Manchester offers a rare opportunity to build something truly distinctive from the ground up, creating not only exceptional guest experiences but an extraordinary workplace culture that will define the property's future success. We are seeking an exceptional Director of Human Resources to join the Executive Committee and play a pivotal role in shaping the talent, culture and leadership foundations of this landmark opening. About the Role Reporting directly to the General Manager, with a functional reporting line to the Regional Senior Director of Human Resources, the Director of Human Resources will serve as a strategic business partner and influential member of the hotel's Executive Leadership Team. This position carries responsibility for developing and executing a Human Resources strategy aligned with both property and brand objectives. You will provide expert leadership across talent acquisition, workforce planning, succession management, employee engagement, performance development, compensation and organisational effectiveness. As a key custodian of the associate experience, you will help create an environment where talent thrives, teams feel empowered, and individuals are inspired to deliver exceptional hospitality. In a pre-opening environment, your impact will be visible from day one, helping to build the culture, capabilities and leadership framework that underpin long-term business success. Key Responsibilities • Develop and implement a comprehensive Human Resources strategy aligned with W Hotels' brand vision and the hotel's business objectives. • Lead all pre-opening recruitment, workforce planning and talent acquisition activities, ensuring the hotel attracts exceptional talent across all functions. • Champion succession planning, talent reviews and leadership development initiatives that support sustainable organisational growth. • Drive associate engagement strategies, culture-building initiatives and workforce retention programmes. • Partner with department leaders to develop high-performing teams, enhance organisational effectiveness and strengthen leadership capability. • Oversee compensation, recognition and reward programmes, ensuring competitiveness, fairness and alignment with business priorities. • Serve as a trusted advisor to the General Manager, Executive Committee and ownership stakeholders on all people-related matters. • Ensure compliance with Marriott policies, employment legislation, diversity initiatives and human resource best practices while fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. The Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will be a dynamic and commercially minded Human Resources leader with a passion for people, culture and luxury hospitality. You will possess the ability to balance strategic thinking with operational execution, influencing stakeholders at every level while maintaining a strong focus on associate engagement and business performance. An exceptional communicator and relationship builder, you will thrive in a fast-paced environment where innovation, creativity and collaboration are highly valued. We are looking for someone who demonstrates: • A people-first leadership style built on trust, authenticity and accountability. • Experience leading Human Resources functions within hospitality, lifestyle, luxury or service-driven environments. • Strong commercial awareness and an understanding of how people strategies drive business performance. • Expertise in talent acquisition, succession planning, organisational development and employee engagement. • The ability to coach, inspire and develop both emerging and established leaders. • Confidence managing change and building culture within a pre-opening environment. Education & Experience • A two-year degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or a related discipline, with a minimum of four years' experience in Human Resources, management operations or a related professional area; OR • A bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or a related discipline, with a minimum of two years' relevant professional experience. Why Join Marriott International? At Marriott International, we believe that exceptional guest experiences begin with exceptional associates. As the world's leading hospitality company, we offer unrivalled opportunities for career growth, international mobility and leadership development across a portfolio of globally recognised brands. Joining W Hotels means becoming part of a brand that celebrates creativity, diversity and individuality. As a member of the pre-opening leadership team at W Manchester, you will have the rare opportunity to influence every stage of the employee journey, establish a culture that reflects the spirit of the brand and leave a lasting legacy within one of the UK's most exciting hotel openings. Your Next Chapter Starts Here This is more than a Human Resources leadership role. It is an opportunity to build the culture, talent strategy and leadership foundations of a destination that will redefine luxury lifestyle hospitality in Manchester. If you are an inspiring people leader with the vision, passion and expertise to shape an exceptional associate experience from the very beginning, we invite you to explore this unique opportunity with W Manchester and become part of the future of W Hotels and Marriott International. At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law. W Hotels’ mission is to Ignite Curiosity, Expand Worlds. We are a place to experience life. We’re here to open doors and open minds. We are constantly inspired by new faces and new experiences. A tuned-in, up-for-anything spirit is at our core and has made us renowned for reinventing the norms of luxury around the globe. Whatever/Whenever is our culture and service philosophy that brings our guests’ passions to life. If you are original, innovative, and always looking towards the future of what’s possible, welcome to W Hotels. In joining W Hotels, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International. Be where you can do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global  team, and become the best version of you.