Marriott International is investing in its people with the launch of a new program that offers its 2500-strong team personal and professional development opportunities.
The FlexiFutures program, which launched at Marriott Australia-wide on Tuesday, is designed to help the hotel giant attract and retain top talent – something many in the industry have struggled with due to a pandemic-related labour and skills shortage.
Marriott International Area Vice President – Australia, New Zealand & Pacific, Sean Hunt, believes this challenge presents opportunities for aspiring hoteliers.
“At Marriott, we believe in the power of our people,” he said.
“They’re both our foundation and our inspiration. And to show how much we value each and every individual’s contribution, we’ve developed our all-encompassing FlexiFutures program for new and existing employees. We’re offering the chance to embark on a career with us that will open new doors and unlock limitless possibilities. We’re not offering work with a side of life, on the contrary this life with the works.”
Marriott is currently recruiting for over 230 positions in across brands such as W Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton, and Westin. The people-first approach is centred around what employees are looking to gain from their career.
The program is being rolled out nationally, led by Marriott International Area Director Human Resources – Australia, New Zealand & Pacific, Natasha Rasheed.
“We inspire our associates to make someone else’s day better, enabling them to contribute and motivating them to be their best self every day,” said Rasheed
“Marriott Programs also enable our associates to experience greater freedom to create the work/life balance that works for them. With more leave, more benefits and more perks than ever before. We pledge to put associates first and to help open their eyes to the true power of travel and our incredibly upbeat industry. Fun. Flexible. Fulfilling. That’s our promise to our people.”
The Marriott Development Academy, a global training program with a self-paced learning approach, is integral to the roll out.
At Marriott, 55% of management roles are filled internally, and the internal training and development program has helped employees achieve promotions within the company. During the pandemic, Marriott promoted five high-performing associates into first-time General Manager roles.
Marriott has released a new campaign to support the program, titled Life With The Works, to show the opportunities for career progression at Marriott.