Assistant Director, People & Culture

Company Description

Experience the magic of working at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, a timeless Vancouver landmark known as the ‘Castle in the City’. With its majestic chateau-style architecture, copper green roof, and historic gargoyles, this stunning hotel has been captivating visitors since 1939. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver on prestigious Georgia Street, the hotel is surrounded by a dynamic arts scene, vibrant shopping, exciting nightlife, and world-class dining. Join our cherished team, and be part of an unforgettable hospitality experience. You’ll help create lasting memories for our guests in a setting that’s as exceptional as you are! 

Job Description

Assistant Director, People & Culture

We are seeking an enthusiastic People & Culture leader to join our team. If you are ready to inspire positive change, foster an inclusive workplace, and elevate the employee experience, we want to hear from you.

This leadership role supports the Director, People & Culture in the overall management of the department, ensuring alignment with the Fairmont philosophy of fostering an environment where every employee is recognized, valued, and supported for their contributions.

In this role, you will support and lead key aspects of the Employee Journey, including Employer Branding, Talent Selection, Onboarding, Performance Management, Employee Engagement, Learning & Development, Compensation & Benefits, and Health & Wellness. Your contributions will directly enhance the employee experience and support a motivated, high-performing team.

What is in It for You

• Competitive salary starting at $90,000, with salary reviews conducted annually based on performance, demonstrated capabilities, and market conditions
• Access to our Health & Benefits Program, including extended health and medical, dental, vision, and paramedical benefits once eligibility requirements are met
• Access to our company-matched Defined Contribution Pension Plan (DCPP), company-matched Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP), and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) when meeting eligibility requirements
• Paid annual vacation (up to 30+ days per year based on years of service), 12 statutory holidays, and birthday leave once eligibility requirements are met
• Access to our comprehensive wellness program benefits through Green Shield offering complimentary counseling, wellness sessions, financial and family planning, etc.
• Opportunity to develop your talent and grow within your property and across the world
• Opportunity to develop your talent through coaching and our Leadership Mentoring Programs
• Complimentary access to our learning and development programs through our Academies
• Discounted courses and certificate programs through eCornell
• Colleague benefit card offering discounted room and F&B rates at Accor properties worldwide
• Exclusive access to the Pacific Northwest Food & Beverage Discount Program, with 50% off at our dining destinations in Vancouver, Victoria, and Whistler
• Complimentary hotel stay for newly hired colleagues, including breakfast for two through our BE OUR GUEST program
• Opportunity to be nominated for and win your dream trip through our yearly employee and leadership recognition program
• Complimentary meals during your shift through our Colleague Dining Program
• Transit Subsidy Program offering payroll deduction for transit with company-provided discounts
• Complimentary dry-cleaning of business attire ($50 per month)
• An inclusive, empowering company culture where people are at the heart of everything we do
• The opportunity to work alongside passionate hospitality professionals committed to making the world a more welcoming place
• Opportunities to make a difference through our Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, including our Sustainability Committee and our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, championing 2SLGBTQIA+, Ability & Accessibility, Gender Equality, and Race & Cultural Diversity
• The opportunity to work in a luxury hotel environment within a Vancouver heritage building, dating back to 1939

What You Will Do

• Assist in leading the day-to-day operations of the People & Culture Department, ensuring core standards are met and processes run effectively
• Ensure the People & Culture team is trained, informed, and supported in delivering their responsibilities
• Serve as a role model by demonstrating professional leadership aligned with Fairmont values, fostering a positive and supportive environment
• Promote strong employee relations through open communication, trust, and mutual respect
• Act as an internal consultant, providing coaching and guidance on employee relations, employment legislation, labour law compliance, human rights, Collective Bargaining Agreement interpretation, and HR policies and procedures
• Ensure compliance with corporate, regional, hotel, and government regulations across all People & Culture functions
• Support initiatives related to employee relations, health & wellness, talent management, performance feedback, and career development
• Partner with departmental leaders on performance management, employee relations, and individual development planning
• Manage employee engagement initiatives and hotel-wide recognition programs to support an inclusive workplace culture
• Support employee exit processes, including exit interviews and final pay accuracy in accordance with legal requirements
• Foster a culture of trust, inclusion, integrity, and open communication across the hotel
• Act in the capacity of Director, People & Culture in their absence
• Assist with general office administration and other duties as required

Qualifications

What We Are Looking For

• 3+ years of progressive experience in People & Culture / Human Resources, including leadership experience (unionized environment preferred)
• Degree or diploma in Human Resources, Hospitality, or a related field preferred
• Experience in the tourism and hospitality industry with strong understanding of unionized environments (employee relations, conflict resolution, talent acquisition considered an asset)
• Strong knowledge of employment legislation and best practices, including local, provincial, and federal laws, as well as privacy legislation
• Proven ability to foster an inclusive, collaborative, and high-engagement workplace culture
• Energetic, resourceful, and proactive leader with strong organization, prioritization, and decision-making skills
• Collaborative and pragmatic approach to resolving complex employee relations matters
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills with professional maturity
• Strong presentation and facilitation skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Flexible, adaptable, and able to respond positively to change in a service-focused environment
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace
• Luxury hotel experience is a strong asset

Additional Information

Visa Requirements:

Must be legally eligible to work in Canada. The hotel is unable to assist candidates in obtaining Canadian work authorization.

Our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

We are an inclusive company and our ambition is to attract, recruit and promote diverse talent.

Why work for Accor?

We are far more than a worldwide leader. We welcome you as you are and you can find a job and brand that matches your personality. We support you to grow and learn every day, making sure that work brings purpose to your life, so that during your journey with us, you can continue to explore Accor’s limitless possibilities.

By joining Accor, every chapter of your story is yours to write and together we can imagine tomorrow's hospitality. Discover the life that awaits you at Accor, visit

Do what you love, care for the world, dare to challenge the status quo! #BELIMITLESS