Learning & Development Manager
Full-Time
Location: Al Zorah Beach Resort – Ajman, United Arab Emirates
About Us
Set within a rare natural paradise and just a short drive from Dubai, Al Zorah Beach Resort is a sophisticated coastal retreat framed by protected mangroves, white sand beaches, and vibrant lagoons.
As we undergo an exciting transformation guided by the highest global standards in luxury hospitality, this is a unique opportunity to be part of a pre-opening journey that will culminate in the grand opening of Four Seasons Resort Ajman at Al Zorah in 2027.
From sunrise swims to serene spa moments, our resort embodies understated elegance, and we are building a team that reflects the same thoughtful care, intuitive service, and deep attention to detail.
Our Ideal Candidate Will Have
The Learning & Development Manager plays a vital role in cultivating a culture of continuous learning and service excellence across the resort.
This position leads all aspects of training, onboarding, and professional development, ensuring that every team member is empowered with the skills, confidence, and mindset to deliver world-class experiences.
Beyond facilitating learning, you’ll act as a strategic partner, aligning development programs with business goals, driving talent pipelines through internship and MIT recruitment, and ensuring leadership readiness across all levels of the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Learning & Service Excellence
- Partner with department heads to identify performance gaps and create tailored training solutions to improve both guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
- Design and facilitate learning programs that target key skills, behavioural competencies, and service excellence goals.
- Support line managers in implementing structured on-the-job training and coaching within their departments.
Leadership & Management Development
- Deliver management development programs and coach department heads on creating personalised development plans.
- Ensure all college recruits and interns complete structured learning programs with defined learning objectives.
- Support succession planning through targeted learning interventions and career development frameworks.
Compliance & Organisational Learning
- Oversee all compliance and safety training requirements in collaboration with People & Culture Team and department heads.
- Develop and maintain an annual Learning Needs Analysis and Training Plan aligned with property goals and budget.
- Track, evaluate, and measure the effectiveness of learning programs using feedback, results, and behavioural outcomes.
- Manage training budgets and coordinate with external vendors for specialized training initiatives.
Culture & Engagement
- Promote a culture of learning through visible engagement, recognition, and storytelling.
- Champion service culture initiatives and change management projects that reinforce company values and leadership competencies.
- Represent Learning & Development as an integral member of the People & Culture leadership team.
Onboarding & Development Programs
- Lead and facilitate new hire orientation programs and ensure every new employee experiences a consistent and inspiring introduction to the resort’s culture and standards.
- Oversee and deliver the New Leader Orientation program to support leadership onboarding and 90-day success.
- Manage and coach the Designated Trainer (DT) program, ensuring training delivery standards are consistent across all departments.
- Conduct regular audits of training materials and maintain up-to-date Standards Training Manuals and checklists.
- Oversee and continuously enhance the internship and MIT recruitment programs, ensuring a strong pipeline of future leaders.
- Build strong partnerships with international hospitality schools and universities to attract high-potential talent.
Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum 3–5 years of managerial experience in Learning & Development within a luxury hotel or resort.
- Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, Human Resources, Education, or a related field.
- Strong facilitation and coaching background, ideally with certification in adult learning or instructional design.
- Proven experience designing and delivering leadership and service training programs.
- Solid understanding of hotel operations, especially within luxury or five-star environments.
- Experience managing diverse teams and cultures.
- Strong presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- High proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with digital learning tools and LMS platforms is an advantage.
- Dynamic, approachable, and driven by the desire to help others grow and success
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
- Work visa, medical insurance, and accommodation provided
- Professional development opportunities and international exposure
- A collaborative pre-opening environment where creativity, learning, and growth are at the heart of everything we do.