Director of People and Culture, Resort Okinawa

About Four Seasons:

Four Seasons is powered by our people. We are a collective of individuals who crave to become better, to push ourselves to new heights and to treat each other as we wish to be treated in return. Our team members around the world create amazing experiences for our guests, residents, and partners through a commitment to luxury with genuine heart. We know that the best way to enable our people to deliver these exceptional guest experiences is through a world-class employee experience and company culture.         

At Four Seasons, we believe in recognizing a familiar face, welcoming a new one and treating everyone we meet the way we would want to be treated ourselves. Whether you work with us, stay with us, live with us or discover with us, we believe our purpose is to create impressions that will stay with you for a lifetime. It comes from our belief that life is richer when we truly connect to the people and the world around us.

About the location:

Set along 100 acres of pristine beachfront on Okinawa’s west coast, Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Okinawa will introduce a new expression of resort living in Japan. Designed in harmony with the island’s natural landscape and cultural heritage, the resort will feature guest rooms, private villas, residences, and a beach club, all connected through walkable gardens and open spaces. With a focus on thoughtful design, connection to nature, and the signature service that defines Four Seasons, the resort will offer both guests and team members the opportunity to be part of something truly special in one of Japan’s most unique destinations.

Set along 100 acres of pristine beachfront on Okinawa’s west coast, Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Okinawa will introduce a new expression of resort living in Japan. Designed in harmony with the island’s natural landscape and cultural heritage, the resort will feature guest rooms, private villas, residences, and a beach club, all connected through walkable gardens and open spaces. With a focus on thoughtful design, connection to nature, and the signature service that defines Four Seasons, the resort will offer both guests and team members the opportunity to be part of something truly special in one of Japan’s most unique destinations. 

About the Role

The Director of People and Culture forms part of the Resort Leadership team who collectively make key strategic and operational decisions for the Resort.

The Four Seasons Resort Okinawa is looking for a Director of People and Culture. Candidates with passion for excellence, expertise in hospitality operations and proven leadership experience are invited to apply for a career with Four Seasons. As a member of the Planning Committee, the Director of People and Culture works across disciplines to deliver an exceptional experience.

What you will do

People & Culture Leadership

• Direct and oversee all aspects of the People & Culture function, including employee relations, recruitment, retention, benefits administration, and compliance

• Lead and develop the People & Culture team, ensuring effective delivery of HR services across the resort

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performance culture aligned with Four Seasons values

Talent Management & Development

• Establish and implement recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes in line with corporate policies and local regulations

• Drive talent development initiatives, including succession planning, career development, and internal mobility

• Assess workforce capabilities and support leaders with performance management, coaching, and career planning

• Design and implement training and development programs to strengthen capabilities across all levels

Employee Relations & Engagement

• Monitor employee performance and provide guidance on disciplinary actions, including recommendations for suspension or termination where appropriate

• Develop and manage performance appraisal processes across the resort

• Promote effective communication across all levels of the organisation, ensuring clarity and alignment

• Support a strong employee engagement environment, addressing concerns and fostering open dialogue

HR Operations & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all local labour laws, wage and hour regulations, and corporate policies

• Oversee workers’ compensation, legal matters, and employee-related risk management

• Maintain accurate HR policies and procedures in line with regulatory requirements

Budgeting & Workforce Planning

• Prepare and manage the People & Culture budget, including labour costs, benefits, and HR initiatives

• Analyse manpower needs and workforce planning requirements to support business objectives

• Ensure cost-effective management of HR programs and employee initiatives

Communication & Organisational Effectiveness

• Guide and influence internal communication strategies, ensuring effective delivery of key messages across the resort

• Recommend appropriate communication channels to engage employees at all levels

• Plan and organise departmental priorities, delegating responsibilities effectively within the team

Who You Are

• Degree in Hospitality or equivalent experience.

• A minimum of five (5) years of work experience as Director of People and Culture within the hotel industry.

• Strong knowledge of local labour laws and employment practices in Japan

• Experience in pre-opening or opening environments is advantageous

• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills across all levels of the organisation

• Demonstrated ability to build high-performing teams and drive employee engagement

• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills

• Strategic mindset with the ability to balance operational execution and long-term talent planning