The Wildbirch Hotel - 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 People & Culture Director 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 People & Culture Director 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.
• 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!