Director of Human Resources

Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Director of Human Resources will be a key member of the hotel's Executive Committee (ExCom) and will lead the overall People & Culture strategy throughout the pre-opening and operational phases.

The successful candidate will build the Human Resources department from the ground up, recruit and onboard approximately 90-100 employees, implement HR policies and procedures, and create an environment built on trust, respect, inclusion, engagement and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the Human Resources strategy during pre-opening and ongoing operations.
• Lead the recruitment campaign for approximately 90-100 colleagues across all hotel departments.
• Develop employer branding initiatives and establish strong partnerships with hospitality schools, universities and recruitment agencies.
• Ensure full compliance with Italian Labour Law, National Collective Labour Agreements (CCNL), employment contracts and all relevant employment jurisprudence.
• Manage employee relations, disciplinary procedures, labour disputes and legal compliance with the highest professional standards.
• Ensure HR processes comply with GDPR and Italian privacy legislation.
• Develop and implement HR policies aligned with IHG standards and Italian legislation.
• Lead onboarding, performance management, succession planning, learning and development, talent management and employee engagement initiatives.
• Foster a culture of trust, collaboration, inclusion, diversity and wellbeing.
• Coach department heads and managers on leadership, employee relations and performance management.
• Oversee payroll administration together with Finance and external payroll providers where applicable.
• Manage the Human Resources operating budget, including payroll planning, recruitment, training and employee engagement initiatives.
• Ensure accurate HR reporting, workforce planning and organisational development.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Previous experience as Director of Human Resources or Senior Human Resources Manager within luxury five-star hotels.
• Experience within IHG Hotels & Resorts or another international luxury hotel company is highly desirable.
• Very good spoken and written English and Italian.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Italian Labour Law, employment contracts, collective bargaining agreements (CCNL), labour regulations and employment jurisprudence.
• Excellent understanding of Italian HR compliance and employment legislation.
• Exceptional emotional intelligence, empathy and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to build trust, inspire teams and create a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
• Outstanding leadership, coaching and communication skills.
• Strong organisational and project management capabilities.
• High ethical standards, integrity and absolute confidentiality.
• Strong analytical skills and experience managing HR budgets and KPIs.
• Excellent knowledge of HR Information Systems (HRIS).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Law, Business Administration, Psychology or a related discipline.
• Master's Degree or professional HR certification is considered an advantage.
• Eligibility to work in Italy is required.
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What We Offer

• The opportunity to become part of one of Sicily's most prestigious luxury hotel openings.
• A strategic Executive Committee position within Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and IHG Hotels & Resorts.
• Annual employment contract commencing in September 2026. Following the successful completion of the initial two-year employment period, the contract may be converted into a permanent employment agreement, subject to performance and business requirements.
• Competitive executive compensation package.
• Professional development and international career opportunities within IHG Hotels & Resorts.

Contract Framework

The successful candidate will be employed under the applicable Italian employment framework. The contractual classification (CCNL Turismo or Dirigenti del Terziario/Turismo) will be determined according to the candidate's experience, qualifications and the level of responsibility associated with the role.

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What you can expect from us

We give our people everything they need to succeed. From a competitive salary that rewards all your hard work to a wide range of benefits designed to help you live your best work life – including a full uniform, impressive room discounts and some of the best training in the business. 

Our mission is to welcome everyone and create inclusive teams where we celebrate difference and encourage colleagues to bring their whole selves to work. IHG Hotels & Resorts provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. We promote a culture of trust, support, and acceptance. Always welcoming different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. 

IHG gives every member of the team the room they need to belong, grow and make a difference in a collaborative environment. We know that to work well, we need to feel well – both inside and outside of work – and through our myWellbeing framework, we are committed to supporting wellbeing in your health, lifestyle, and workplace. 

So, if you are passionate about people, leadership and creating an outstanding workplace culture, we invite you to become part of the pre-opening journey of Kimpton Villa Miramare Taormina. Join us and you’ll become part of our ever-growing global family.