Director of People & Culture

Join the team at The Wildbirch Hotel (wildbirchhotel.com) as we prepare to open Anchorage’s first boutique property in early 2025. We are seeking a dynamic Director ofPeople & Culture  who will be instrumental in building our team and driving the recruitment efforts needed to launch our new hotel. This on-property role will play a critical part in creating a supportive, inclusive, and high-performing work environment that mirrors the adventurous spirit and rugged charm of our hotel.

ABOUT OUR COMPANY

The Wildbirch Hotel
Located in Anchorage’s downtown Mushing District, The Wildbirch Hotel is set to become the city's newest hub for hospitality and local culture. As a part of the JdV by Hyatt brand, our hotel will offer 252 design-forward accommodations, onsite dining, an Adventure Desk, and local art partnerships that embody Alaska's adventurous lifestyle.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Director of People & Culture will perform professional-level human resource duties and act as the on-site point of contact for all team member-related matters. This role is key to recruiting, onboarding, and developing a motivated workforce aligned with our brand’s vision. You’ll support our hotel’s opening and work closely with department heads to ensure a seamless hiring process, manage team relations, payroll, benefits, safety protocols, and day-to-day HR functions.

As the face of People & Culture at The Wildbirch Hotel, you will also foster a positive, engaging, and safe work environment while ensuring compliance with policies, procedures, and regulations. Your role will evolve post-opening to support ongoing team member development, retention, and recognition.

SCOPE OF WORK TEAM

• Leads the on-property People & Culture team at The Wildbirch Hotel.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Recruitment & Onboarding

• Drive and oversee all recruitment efforts, particularly in the pre-opening phase, ensuring a diverse and high-quality candidate pool for management and hourly positions.
• Manage the full hiring cycle, including job postings, screening, interviewing, reference checks, and final offers.
• Develop and coordinate recruiting events, such as job fairs and community outreach efforts to establish The Wildbirch Hotel as an employer of choice.
• Oversee new team member orientation and onboarding, ensuring a smooth and welcoming process.

Team Member Relations & Development

• Promote a positive work culture that reflects The Wildbirch Hotel’s brand values and supports team member engagement and satisfaction.
• Act as a point of contact for team member relations, addressing any concerns with fairness, confidentiality, and compliance.
• Implement in-house training programs to support team member development and career growth while reducing turnover.
• Administer team member recognition programs to celebrate achievements and foster a sense of belonging.

Payroll & Benefits Administration

• Oversee payroll processes, ensuring accuracy in timekeeping, overtime, deductions, and compliance with legal standards.
• Manage HRIS profiles and process updates for new hires, pay changes, and team member status changes.
• Administer all benefits programs, including health insurance, 401K, and paid leave, while coordinating with benefit providers to ensure timely enrollment and accurate billing.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and maintain records to meet legal and internal requirements.
• Manage and oversee workers’ compensation claims, leave administration, and unemployment claims.
• Lead safety and wellness initiatives, promoting a safe and healthy work environment.

Culture & Engagement

• Create and maintain communication channels, including team member bulletin boards and newsletters, to keep staff informed and engaged.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

Prior Experience

• 3 years of experience as a human resources generalist, preferably within the hospitality industry or similar fast-paced service environments.

Skills & Competencies

• Proven experience in high-volume recruitment, particularly for pre-opening hotel roles.
• Knowledge of HRIS and payroll systems.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to manage sensitive team member matters discreetly and professionally.
• Familiarity with employment law and regulatory compliance, particularly in Alaska or similar jurisdictions.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).

OTHER EXPECTATIONS

• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as required during hotel opening and ongoing operations.
• Some travel may be required for job fairs and/or community outreach.

BENEFITS

• Competitive salary.
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401K
• PTO and holiday pay.

This role will be key in creating a culture that celebrates Alaska’s adventure and The Wildbirch Hotel’s unique place within the community. You’ll help us build an enthusiastic and committed team from the ground up. Ready to take on this challenge? We’d love to hear from you!

Source: Hospitality Online

Salary : $75,000