IHG introduces flexible work program to plug hospitality staffing hole

IHG introduces flexible work program to plug hospitality staffing hole
By Alexandra Coulton


IHG Hotels and Resorts has launched new benefits for its Aussie employees, as well as new guidelines for flexible work arrangements, as it prepares for another record year of hotel openings.      

COVID-19 has prompted businesses to look at different ways of working, and with the talent shortage impacting the industry, IHG has been seeking new ways of attracting people to hospitality, while also working to retain the talent it currently has.    

Branded as IHG myBenefits, the platform includes flexible work arrangements, as well as paid parental and partner leave, birthday leave, and the ability to use personal leave for proactive wellness.

IHG is also moving domestic violence leave entitlements from an unpaid to paid leave arrangement, and sabbatical leave is now available for employees to pursue personal or passion projects.  

Employees will also have access to the IHG myPerks platform, which carries discounts and cashback offers at more than 400 known retailers and service providers.

It also provides access to an online wellbeing hub that contains “move, mind, money and munch” content designed to support staff with their physical, mental and financial wellbeing.  

Leanne Harwood, managing director for IHG across Japan, Australasia and the Pacific, said: “We need to get people back to being excited about working in hospitality, and we need to do more to attract people to a career in the accommodation sector.

“People who work in hospitality know that it’s a fantastic place to grow a rewarding career, but we recognise that now more than ever we have to do everything we can to make the most compelling proposition for people to join or stay in our industry.

“Part of that is making sure we are offering our employees the most attractive benefits and working conditions.”

Harwood said IHG is committed to working with each employee’s individual situation based on their role and personal circumstances to find the best way to bring more flexibility into their lives. 

“As well as offering flexible work agreements, we are so excited to be also providing great benefits like paid partner parental leave, and bolstering our wellness offerings through our myPerks platform,” she said.

“By providing a compelling suite of benefits, perks and flexible working arrangements, we hope it will attract jobseekers to our industries and, most importantly, retain the wonderful talent we already have in our business.”

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