People and Culture Manager

Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, demonstrating integrity and respect while acting responsibly? Do you embrace a growth mindset? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional.

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences located in prime destinations around the world, with a strong development pipeline. Increasingly recognized for creating some of the world’s most sought-after properties, the Group provides legendary service inspired by Asian heritage whilst representing the very cutting-edge of luxury experiences.

Mandarin Oriental, Makati is an upcoming 5-star luxury hotel set within the lush Ayala Triangle Gardens, at the prestigious corner of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue. Scheduled to open in 2026, this landmark development will feature 276 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, offering a refined blend of contemporary design and timeless sophistication. Guests will enjoy an exceptional array of world-class amenities, including a curated selection of restaurants, a stylish bar, a serene pool area, and the brand’s signature spa. Designed to be a sanctuary in the heart of the city, the hotel promises an elevated experience for both leisure and business travelers seeking comfort, excellence, and distinction in Manila.

About The Role

The People & Culture Manager supports the Director of People & Culture in the successful pre‑opening and launch of Mandarin Oriental, Makati. The role is instrumental in building a strong organizational culture, attracting and developing exceptional talent, and ensuring that all People & Culture initiatives reflect Mandarin Oriental’s values, service philosophy, and commitment to excellence.

This role balances strategic partnership and hands‑on execution, ensuring people systems, policies, and practices are fully operational prior to opening and sustainable thereafter. This position requires a hands‑on leader who can combine strategic thinking with operational execution in a fast‑paced pre‑opening environment.

Key Responsibilities

Pre‑Opening & People Strategy

• Support the Director of People & Culture in implementing the pre‑opening People & Culture plan, milestones, and timelines.
• Assist in workforce planning, organizational structuring, and manpower budgeting in preparation for hotel opening.
• Ensure People & Culture policies, procedures, systems, and communications are established and operational prior to opening.
  
  

• Lead and manage recruitment activities for pre‑opening, including bulk hiring and selected leadership roles.
• Partner with department heads to understand staffing requirements and ensure timely recruitment aligned with opening schedules.
• Coordinate recruitment campaigns, job fairs, and employer branding initiatives.
• Oversee employment offers, contracts, and pre‑employment requirements.
• Plan and deliver structured pre‑opening onboarding and orientation programs for all colleagues.
  
  

• Coordinate the roll‑out of Mandarin Oriental brand orientation, service culture, and values‑based programs.
• Support the implementation of MOHG Learning & Development frameworks and mandatory training.
• Work closely with leaders to reinforce a culture of service excellence, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Act as a culture ambassador, ensuring Mandarin Oriental values are embedded from day one.
  
  

• Serve as a primary point of contact for colleague relations, fostering a positive, respectful, and inclusive workplace.
• Support the Director of People & Culture in managing disciplinary cases, grievances, and performance‑related matters.
• Design and execute colleague engagement, recognition, and well‑being initiatives during pre‑opening and opening phases.
• Promote open communication and trust between management and colleagues.
  
  

• Oversee daily People & Culture operations including employee records, HR systems, and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with Philippine labor laws, statutory requirements, and MOHG policies.
• Coordinate payroll inputs, benefits administration, timekeeping, and employee lifecycle documentation.
• Support internal audits, government compliance checks, and pre‑opening legal requirements.
  
  

• Coordinate probationary reviews, performance management processes, and feedback cycles.
• Support talent identification, development planning, and succession initiatives.
• Provide people data, insights, and reports to support leadership decision‑making.
  
  

• Work closely with the Director of People & Culture and the Executive Committee to ensure opening‑day readiness.
• Be proactive, flexible, and highly hands‑on in a dynamic pre‑opening environment.
• Support culture‑launch initiatives that establish strong engagement and service standards from the outset.
  
  

• Strong knowledge of Philippine labor laws and HR best practices.
• Excellent communication, coaching, and stakeholder‑management skills.
• High attention to detail with strong organizational capability.
• Service‑driven, emotionally intelligent, and values‑led.
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity and fast‑changing environments.
• Proficient in HR systems, reporting tools, and Microsoft Office.
  
  

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Psychology, Business Administration, or related discipline.
• HR certification and/or postgraduate studies is an advantage.
  
  

• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive People & Culture / HR experience, preferably within luxury hospitality.
• Prior hotel pre‑opening experience in a hotel is highly desirable.
• Experience working with international brands and diverse teams.
  
  

• Be part of a prestigious luxury hotel pre‑opening
• Play a key role in shaping the culture and colleague experience from day one
• Work with a globally respected brand known for excellence and people‑first values
• Enjoy long‑term career growth opportunities within Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group