Assistant Director of Learning & Development
(Five‑Star Luxury Hotel – Dubai)
Note: Hotel name and brand details will be shared with shortlisted candidates only.
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and inspirational Assistant Director of Learning & Development to support and elevate the talent development strategy of one of Dubai’s most iconic five‑star luxury properties. This role demands an individual with a strong background in luxury hospitality training, exceptional facilitation skills, and the ability to design and execute high‑impact learning programs aligned with Forbes and brand standards.
The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in developing leadership capabilities, driving colleague engagement, and fostering a culture of continuous learning within large, multicultural teams.
Core Duties & Responsibilities
- Support the Director of Learning & Development in shaping and executing the hotel’s overall L&D strategy
- Design, implement, and facilitate training programs including onboarding, service excellence, leadership development, and brand standards
- Ensure all colleagues embody Forbes service standards through consistent coaching and skills training
- Conduct training needs analyses and create tailored development plans to support departmental goals
- Oversee the property’s Learning Management System (LMS), ensuring accurate training records and compliance
- Lead and support engagement programs such as performance reviews, talent development initiatives, and career progression pathways
- Work closely with department heads to align learning programs with operational requirements
- Monitor training effectiveness through feedback, assessments, and service performance indicators
- Deliver train‑the‑trainer workshops and mentor departmental trainers
- Ensure all L&D activities align with corporate policies, local regulations, and brand requirements
- Coordinate cross‑training opportunities, succession planning, and high‑potential development programs
- Support hotel‑wide cultural, wellness, and colleague‑focused initiatives to enhance engagement and retention
- Prepare monthly L&D reports, training calendars, and budget updates
Core Competencies
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Learning & Development role within a luxury hotel environment
- Proven experience delivering large‑scale training programs in properties with 500+ colleagues
- Forbes service training experience highly preferred
- Strong presentation, facilitation, and coaching skills
- Solid understanding of HR processes, talent development frameworks, and LMS platforms
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities
- Ability to build strong relationships across departments and influence at all levels
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Fluent in English; additional languages—especially European languages—are an advantage
Work Schedule
This position follows a flexible operational schedule in line with the standards of luxury hospitality. The role is not restricted to a standard office timetable and may require adjusting hours based on training schedules, colleague needs, property events, and peak operational periods.