Director of People + Culture

Overview

Director of People + Culture

Reports to:

General Manager; position is exempt.

Accepting application through January 23, 2026, or until filled.

Who We Are
Hotels done differently. It is not just a slogan; it is who we are in everything we do. We believe in the power of People, Place, and Character; ensuring our properties are a place where individuals are valued and celebrated as a tribute to the neighborhoods and the people of the communities in which we operate; elevating our associates’ pride in who they are, where they live and who we serve.

A little bit rebel, a little bit refined, The Populus is smart and sophisticated, charming, and confident, and always down for shaking up the status quo. Consistently moving the needle on what a social club can be, Populus thrives on the counterculture spirit, constantly challenging what it means to gather and engage while connecting guests to each other and what inspires them.

Populus believes the more interested you are, the more interesting you are!

Since its founding, Aparium has grown into a new kind of hotel brand, one that ventures off the beaten path, both geographically and philosophically. It is a sophisticated hotel brand known for its singular ability to combine the business acumen of large hospitality companies with the charm of boutique hotels. At Populus, the ideals of Opportunity, Equity, and Inclusion (OEI) for our members are at the forefront of the community and the environment we will create.

• Acts as guardian of the cultural pillars of People, Place, and Character that promotes an engaging, positive, and safe work environment for all employees; implements proven practices and programs in which employees feel recognized, valued, and supported; shows courage by addressing individuals who negatively impact our aspiring culture
• Knows the pulse of the local talent pool, can be seen connecting with potentials around town; does what it takes to attract like-minded individuals, aware of local market compensation offerings to ensure the hotel is competitive; creates a seamless interviewing process, efficient background check methodology and productive onboarding process for new associates
• Demonstrates subject matter expertise for their respective field by ensuring compliance to mandatory labor laws, acts, and fair practices; stays abreast and proactive to upcoming changes for city, state, and federal labor statutes or by-laws that impact and protect our people and company; serves as the “go-to” expert on associates benefits plans and enrollment by simplifying complex information for others
• Fluent in people metrics and performance management practices that drive a high-performing culture, including owning the corrective action process, meaningful performance discussions, impactful training solutions, mature facilitation skills, and guiding career development progression
• Collaborative and strategic partner to the General Manager and the Executive Committee for planning property goals, questioning existing practices, ensuring appropriate staffing levels, coaching for performance, and heightening service levels
• Practices sound financial decisions to ensure budgets provide resources, events, and programs for recognition, rewards, and development of the people and to celebrate the culture
• Demonstrates a passion for “being in the know” by spending time in departments, attending shift briefings or department meetings; exhibits servant leadership by lending a hand during busy periods
• Displays a collaborative spirit with peers and managers by exchanging ideas and valuing differing opinions; facilitates focus groups and identifies methods for employees to voice ideas or recommendations and ensures remedies are implemented
• Maintains confidentiality and acts as a trusted confidant; can coach peers and managers to address performance concerns with their teams
• Uses various communication channels to ensure people are informed; channels messaging to reflect the brand and be meaningful to all associates; ensure inclusivity by utilizing translation resources when applicable

• Minimum of five (5) years as an HR Generalist within an…