The people-oriented hospitality industry underwent massive manpower challenges in the past year since the pandemic struck. Layoffs and furloughs became rampant, triggering a HR crisis.
However, Amit Kumar, General Manager of Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa, pointed out that this predicament also highlighted the need for proper manpower management. This has been the bedrock of Marriott’s sustainability programme. Its ‘Principles of Responsible Business’ attempts to provide opportunity to, and take care of, its associates, even in the most challenging times.
Kumar stated that the brand values its associates, recognising that its workforce is a key to its success. While many hotels realised the merits of multi-tasking during the pandemic, he said that this has been one of the core initiatives at Marriott for several years, and one that Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa, too, advocates strongly.
“The pandemic taught us lots of things, especially related to the human component and its relevance to sustainability. Multi-tasking, for instance, results in operational efficiency as people from different operations can learn new things at their own pace and capacity. We are still exploring this facet and we would like to work on this initiative in the years to come,” he added. The impetus on the human aspect is understandable because associates are the ones who create the personal experiences that keep guests coming back to a hotel.
Kumar added that Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa implements several innovative practices to benefit people and the planet while keeping profit in perspective. It also ensures that its guests are aware of its green practices, so they know that they are staying and dining in an eco-friendly property.
From the operational perspective, it focuses on minimising its carbon footprint, reducing its energy usage and conserving water, etc. Its F&B department uses indigenous ingredients, thereby supporting the local community. “We are also looking at growing our own produce at our inhouse organic garden to push the farm to fork concept,” Kumar added.
Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa is amongst the many Marriott hotels that is increasingly taking a mature sustainability approach, incorporating socially responsible practices along with sound environmental policies. Kumar noted that this is imperative because the greatest threat to our planet today is the belief that someone else will save it for us. This is the perfect opportunity for self-service, in business and in personal life.
