Director of People & Culture

Director of People & Culture The Hawthorn by Galway Bay | Ireland’s Newest 5-Star Hotel Galway | Full-Time | Pre-Opening Executive Appointment A rare chance to define the service experience at a 5-star luxury hotel on Ireland’s west coast. About The Hawthorn by Galway Bay Poised on the edge of Galway Bay where land meets sea, The Hawthorn by Galway Bay is positioned to be Ireland’s newest 5-star hotel, a destination designed by nature and refined by you nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way. Surrounded by native hawthorn trees and perched beside an 18-hole championship golf course, The Hawthorn by Galway Bay features 114 meticulously designed suites and rooms, an experiential spa, wellness spaces, destination dining at The Skylark, and panoramic views of the Atlantic coast. Opening in early 2026, this is a rare opportunity to shape the standards, service, and spirit of a landmark hotel, from its first guest to its lasting legacy About the Role The Director of People & Culture will shape the organisational identity, values and employee experience of The Hawthorn by Galway Bay. As a pre-opening leadership role, you will have full responsibility for all people functions — from recruitment, talent development, and workforce planning to diversity, well-being, and leadership alignment. The Director of People & Culture will play a strategic and hands-on role in creating a workplace culture rooted in purpose, excellence, and emotional intelligence, one that reflects the tone and service promise of a 5-star hotel. Key Responsibilities Lead the development and implementation of a people strategy aligned with brand and business objectives. Oversee all people-related activity from pre-opening recruitment through to post-launch talent development. Shape the workplace culture to reflect The Hawthorn by Galway Bay’s values of calm, connection, and quiet luxury. Champion inclusive leadership, employee wellbeing, and open, values-led communication. Implement systems for onboarding, development, progression planning, and succession. Ensure compliance with Irish employment law, HR policy, and governance. Partner with General Manager and Executive Team on performance planning and strategic direction. Lead staff recognition, internal communications, and brand-aligned training initiatives. Foster a culture of high performance, personal growth, and cross-functional collaboration. Manage departmental budgets, payroll systems, and HR technology. Ideal Profile 10+ years' experience in a senior HR/People leadership role; luxury or hospitality experience preferred. Demonstrated experience in leading organisational culture development and people strategy. Strong knowledge of Irish employment law and HR compliance. Experience in pre-opening environments or high-growth teams is advantageous. Proven ability to align people practices with brand, service delivery, and commercial performance. Emotionally intelligent, inspiring, and able to influence at all levels Compensation & Benefits A highly competitive executive package is offered, reflective of the seniority of the role and the distinct privilege of shaping Ireland’s most anticipated new hotel.