The Hilton Group has appointed Shamala Krishnan as Cluster Director of Human Resources for Hilton Dubai Jumeirah and Hilton Dubai The Walk, with immediate effect.  

In her new role, Shamala brings over 25 years of HR leadership experience across key global sectors. She previously served Hilton in Singapore as the Director of Pre-Opening Human Resources for APAC (excluding China). Since joining the group in 2012, she has overseen HR operations in Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka as the Regional Director of Human Resources.  

“Shamala played a pivotal role in championing diversity, equity, and inclusion programs while enhancing workplace engagement. Her contributions have been recognised through awards such as the Heart of House Award, the Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion Award, and accolades as a Gender Diversity Champion,” the company highlighted in her appointment announcement.  

In her previous roles, Shamala worked with SGB MY as the Head of Human Resources, and held HR Director positions at Marriott International, Meliá Hotels International, and Hotel Maya.  

On the academic front, Shamala holds a master’s degree in International Hospitality Management from the University of Toulouse and a diploma in Human Resources Management. With core competencies in organisational development, employer branding, HR transformation, talent development, and employee well-being, Shamala is set to spearhead a strategic approach to HR leadership that fosters innovation, employee engagement, and operational success.  

Shamala also announced her transition via a LinkedIn post:  “I’m pleased to share that my journey with Hilton continues as I return to hotel operations in the EMEA region. I am deeply grateful for the warm welcome from both the HR team and all the team members, and I’m excited to contribute to Hilton’s continued success. Looking forward to this new chapter and the opportunity to collaborate with such a talented group in delivering exceptional guest experiences.”  

You may also like:

• Ramadan Rewards: What employers should continue to retain talent
• The 3 C’s of Building a Rewarding Workplace
• World Sleep Day: Napping at work isn’t a crime—It’s a productivity hack
• Why an unwritten right to disconnect rule rewards employees
• Emaar India CHRO on linking rewards to performance for an engaged workforce

The company also welcomed Bishoui Khamis as Cluster Commercial Director, stating, “These leadership appointments mark a pivotal step in the continued growth and success of Hilton Dubai Jumeirah and Hilton Dubai The Walk. With a focus on commercial excellence and a people-centric approach, the properties are set to strengthen their position as leading destinations in Dubai’s dynamic hospitality landscape.”