Director of People & Culture

World Foods / Ya Hala is looking for a strategic and visionary Director of People & Culture to join our team and shape the future of our workplace. In this role, you’ll drive our human resources strategy to support our business goals and values. You’ll oversee key areas including talent acquisition, organizational development, performance management, employee engagement, diversity & inclusion, and compliance.

If you’re passionate about building strong teams, creating inclusive cultures, and aligning HR practices with big-picture business strategy, we want to meet you.

OUR HISTORY

Our story begins in 1999, when Ya Hala opened its doors on the outskirts of Southeast Portland, introducing the city to authentic, home-cooked Lebanese cuisine. Rooted in quality, tradition, and the spirit of gathering, Ya Hala quickly became a beloved destination for exceptional food and hospitality.

In 2004, the same passion for culture and flavor gave rise to Barbur World Foods—a locally owned marketplace offering a rich selection of international ingredients, local favorites, fresh produce, and Mediterranean specialties.

A decade later, the vision expanded again with the opening of World Foods on Everett in 2014, bringing global flavors and a welcoming neighborhood experience to Portland’s west side. Today, World Foods continues to celebrate diversity through food, connecting communities with thoughtfully curated products and warm, inclusive service.

OUR CORE VALUES

Hospitality and Warmth

We want to do more than just provide a wide product selection and delicious food – we want to enrich our customer’s lives with customer service that demonstrates genuine warmth and hospitality.  By engaging with our customers on a personal level, we elevate ourselves above being ‘just a business’ to being a cornerstone of the community we’re in. 

Unique and Inspired Selections

From staples to local favorites to international specialty items, the products available at each grocery store location must consistently demonstrate our knowledge of local trends and show deference to international culinary favorites. 

WORKING FOR WORLD FOODS MEANS:

• Receive a 50% discount at the deli and 20% discount on all other items at both World Foods locations. 
• Flexible paid time off that increases with tenure.
• Have the option to enroll in affordable health, dental, and vision insurance. 
• Have the option to enroll in short-term-disability insurance.
• Optional 401K.
• Be compensated based on your professional knowledge and experience. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

The following list encompasses the essential functions of this position. The individual is also responsible for engaging in linked or supporting actions even if those actions are not explicitly stated.

Strategic Planning & Leadership:

• Develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives aligned with the overall business strategy.
• Serve as a strategic partner to the executive leadership team, providing insights and recommendations on HR and organizational issues.
• Drive organizational change initiatives to enhance business performance and foster a positive culture.
• Align efficiency initiatives with the company’s strategic goals and objectives.

Talent Acquisition and Management:

• Oversee the recruitment and selection process to attract top talent.
• Implement effective onboarding programs to integrate new employees.
• Develop and maintain a robust talent pipeline to support business growth and succession planning.

Employee Engagement and Retention:

• Design and implement employee engagement programs to enhance job satisfaction and retention.
• Conduct regular employee surveys and develop action plans based on feedback.
• Promote a culture of continuous feedback and recognition.

Performance Management:

• Develop and manage performance appraisal systems that drive high performance.
• Provide coaching and development opportunities for employees at all levels.
• Implement performance improvement plans when necessary.

Learning and Development:

• Identify training needs and create development programs to enhance emplo