Director of Talent and Culture (12 Month Maternity cover)

Company Description
The Raffles name is synonymous with luxury, glamour and extraordinary adventure. Raffles London at The OWO on London’s Whitehall, unites the allure and heritage of Raffles with one of the world’s most historic addresses. This fine Grade II* Edwardian building has been transformed into a spectacular stage for dazzling celebrations; with fine dining, lively bars, the latest in wellness and beauty therapies, the most luxurious suites and rooms, versatile ballroom and event space. Within these much-storied walls, where legendary statesmen and women once shaped the modern world, guests are now invited to discover new and inspiring emotions and connections. At Raffles, you arrive as a guest, leave as a friend and return as family.

Job Description
As the Director of Talent & Culture on a 12 month maternity cover contract, you will be a strategic partner to the General Manager and Executive Committee, leading all aspects of the talent and culture function. You will champion a people-first philosophy, foster a values-driven culture, and ensure the hotel attracts, develops, and retains top-tier talent in alignment with the Raffles brand standards.

Key Responsibilities
People Strategy & Organizational Leadership
Serve as a strategic advisor to the General Manager and Executive Committee, shaping and executing a forward-thinking talent and culture agenda that supports long-term business growth, brand positioning, and organizational resilience.
Workforce Planning & Talent Optimization
Lead enterprise-level workforce planning, organizational design, and capability development to ensure the hotel is structured for operational excellence and future scalability.
Leadership Development & Succession Management
Architect a high-impact leadership development framework, identifying and accelerating internal talent pipelines to ensure continuity in critical roles and sustained leadership excellence across all levels.
Culture Transformation & Engagement
Champion the evolution of a purpose-driven, values-led culture. Design and implement engagement strategies that drive team alignment, accountability, and belonging, enhancing both employee experience and brand advocacy.
Brand-Aligned Talent Acquisition
Oversee a talent acquisition strategy that attracts exceptional, brand-aligned professionals. Elevate employer branding to position Raffles as an employer of choice in the global luxury hospitality market.
Performance Architecture & Recognition
Embed a performance philosophy rooted in excellence, feedback, and recognition. Evolve performance management systems to align individual goals with hotel-wide strategic priorities and brand standards.
Global HR Governance & Compliance
Ensure full alignment with international labor regulations, corporate policies, and ethical business practices. Anticipate emerging risks and proactively lead change management efforts to uphold operational integrity.
Sustainability, Wellbeing & Inclusion
Integrate diversity, equity, inclusion, wellbeing, and sustainability into the people strategy to ensure a holistic, future-focused approach to organizational health and social responsibility.

Additional Information
Why join our Raffles team? Not only will you be joining one of the world’s best hotels you will also receive great benefits including: 31 days holiday including bank holidays plus a day extra for every year of your service up to 5 years (35 Days). 20% annual bonus. Staff meals whist on duty. Free dry cleaning for uniform. Employer pension contribution of 9% Enhanced sick pay. Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay. Life Assurance 3x salary Family Bupa healthcare and Solo Dental care plans. Employee assistance program, including virtual GP and financial advice. Season ticket loans and cycle to work scheme. Colleague gifting to celebrate special occasions. Paid days off to move house or give back time to a charity of your choice. Internal learning and development programmes tailored to you. Fun-filled events, whether that’s a pub quiz, team run or festive party. Employee benefit card offering discounted rates of up to 30% at Accor worldwide and Raffles London F&B outlets. Worldwide development opportunities across Accor’s extensive brand portfolio.

What are the Raffles Values?
Be You: Be creative, innovative, and enthusiastic, showing your personality and flair. Be Kind: Demonstrates humility and generosity through emotional connection with colleagues and guests. Be Happy: Consistently uplifting colleagues and guests through a joyful connection and positive personality. Be Confident: Openly shares knowledge and skills with other colleagues to achieve excellence. Have Your Purpose: Demonstrating care and responsibility within your role, to make a tangible impact on the business.