IHG says more needs to be done to encourage skilled workers to join the hospitality sector.

IHG Hotels and Resorts has introduced a raft of employee benefits designed to encourage skilled workers to join the organisation and to help the company retain the talent currently on its books.

The new program, dubbed ‘IHG myBenefits’ comes as the organisation prepares for another strong year of hotel openings in 2022, with more than 30 scheduled across the Australasia, Japan and Pacific region.

IHG myBenefits features a sweeping range of staff leave and incentive programs designed for a variety of specific and modern needs, with flexibility being a key hallmark. These include paid parental leave both for maternal, paternal and adoption requirements along with the ability for staff to use personal leave availability for proactive wellness or even to take a temporary sabbatical to pursue a personal or passion project. There’s even an extra paid day off for staff members to enjoy their birthday.

Employees will have access to a range of flexible leave options to suit individual circumstances.

The program has also amended its Domestic Violence Leave for staff to paid time off instead of unpaid in an effort to encourage any team members experiencing violence or abuse from an intimate partner to seek assistance without compromising their employment.

IHG Senior Vice President and Managing Director Japan, Australasia and Pacific, Leanne Harwood, said part of ensuring a great place to work was providing employees with the most attractive benefits and working conditions.

“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,” Harwood said.

“Offering our colleagues Flexible Working Agreements is something we are truly passionate about and it’s a policy that we are proud to be rolling out.

IHG Hotels and Resorts SVP and Managing Director Japan, Australasia and Pacific, Leanne Harwood.

“Each colleague’s situation will be different, based on their role and personal circumstances, so we’re committed to working with them to find the best way to bring some more flexibility into their lives.”

Furthermore, an IHG myPerks program also allows staff to enjoy discounts and cashbacks at more than 400 retailers and service providers, along with access to an online ‘Wellbeing Hub’ which provides a variety of tutorials to improve physical, mental and financial wellbeing.

Harwood added that with a highly prosperous year punctuated by recovery and resurgence on the cards in 2022, more needed to be done to encourage people to take up a career in the hospitality sector.