HR Manager

Posted 28 August 2025
LocationSt Albans
Job type Permanent
Discipline Catering
ReferenceJ1517

Job description

Job Purpose
We are seeking a proactive and people-focused HR & People Manager to lead all aspects of human resources within a 4-star hotel in St Albans. This key leadership role is responsible for cultivating a high-performing, service-oriented culture by managing talent acquisition, employee engagement, compliance, and development. The HR & People Manager is a vital member of the hotel’s management team, a trusted advisor to senior leaders, and supports departmental heads to ensure operational excellence through effective people management.

Please note: Previous HR experience within the hotel sector is essential for this role.

Main Responsibilities

(This list is not exhaustive; additional duties may be required in line with the needs of the business.)

HR Strategy & Leadership

  • Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with hotel goals and brand standards

  • Act as a business partner to hotel leadership, advising on organisational design, workforce planning and employee relations

  • Lead hotel-wide HR initiatives, including culture-building, recognition programs and change management

  • Support current and future business needs through the development, engagement, motivation and retention of our people

Recruitment & Onboarding

  • Oversee full-cycle recruitment for all hotel departments (front office, housekeeping, F&B, maintenance, etc.)

  • Partner with department heads to define hiring needs and ensure staffing levels are maintained

  • Ensure all interviewers are trained and competent to interview and assess candidates

  • Lead end-to-end recruitment processes, ensuring a positive candidate experience

  • Manage onboarding, induction and training for new employees to ensure smooth integration and brand alignment

Talent Acquisition & Retention

  • Manage the talent pipeline and retention strategies in conjunction with business management

  • Develop and manage performance evaluation and succession planning

  • Monitor employee engagement and implement initiatives to improve retention

Employee Relations & Culture

  • Foster a positive, respectful and inclusive work environment across all teams

  • Provide coaching and support to managers and team members on performance, conduct and career development

  • Manage grievance and disciplinary procedures fairly and in compliance with hotel policies and employment law

  • Bridge management and employee relations by addressing demands, grievances or other issues

  • Serve as a resource for conflict resolution and employee concerns

  • Promote DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) practices throughout the organisation

  • Work with HODs to ensure the well-being of all team members

  • Promote the Vision, Purpose and Values of the hotel to create a sense of community and belonging

Performance Management

  • Lead performance review processes and support line managers in setting goals and providing constructive feedback

  • Track and report on HR KPIs such as turnover, attendance, training, development and engagement

  • Support in identifying and addressing training needs; working with the Learning & Development Manager in the implementation of learning programs

  • Implement reward and recognition schemes to drive motivation and retention

Learning & Development

  • Regularly review departmental induction plans and supporting material with managers to ensure effective onboarding

  • Deliver company inductions with up-to-date information

  • Ensure probationary reviews are completed and recorded

  • Support the Learning & Development Manager in the coordination and delivery of training programs to support service excellence, compliance and personal development

  • Assist in the monitoring of Apprenticeships and NVQs within the hotel

  • Conduct training audits and evaluations

  • Support career progression and succession planning in all departments

HR Operations & Compliance

  • Ensure HR policies, procedures and records are maintained in line with employment laws and industry standards

  • Manage HR systems ensuring accuracy and data integrity

  • Maintain employee handbooks and HR documentation

  • Support management to ensure payroll costs remain in line with business forecasts, utilising the HR system (EPS)

  • Support payroll processes in collaboration with Finance

  • Ensure headcount remains aligned with budget and strategy

  • Oversee employee benefits and records in coordination with Finance and external providers

  • Manage disciplinary processes and terminations in a fair and compliant manner

  • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, risk assessments and staff welfare programs

Benefits

-          Private Health Care

-          Performance Related Management Bonus

-          Discounted food, beverage, and accommodation.

-          Extra holiday on your birthday and 28 days holiday inclusive BH.

-          30% off spa treatments and 10% off spa products.

-          Free Staff meals on duty.

-          Global hotel discounts through the Preferred Hotel Group.

-          UK hotel discounts through POB Hotel Group.