ESG principles are increasingly shaping the future workforce by emphasizing sustainability, inclusion and empowerment, values that resonate with today’s talent. Amir Golbarg, a visionary leader in the hospitality industry, is driving transformative growth and innovation across the MEA, with a strong focus on sustainability. He shares his views on how these principles are shaping the industry’s future.
How do you see the role of ESG shaping the future workforce?
At Minor Hotels, we prioritize “people potential” by fostering inclusive, supportive workplaces that encourage personal growth and professional development. Furthermore, our commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through initiatives like job creation in local communities and training programs. For example, our partnership with ACTVET in Abu Dhabi provides young Emiratis with employment opportunities and valuable hospitality skills. As a result, we align with the values of today’s workforce, focusing on ethical and sustainable practices that attract top talent. Consequently, this enhances employee engagement, motivation, and a shared commitment to environmental and social outcomes. In 2024, we supported over 450,000 individuals globally.
In what way can leadership evolve to foster a culture of inclusion and empowerment?
Effective leadership at Minor Hotels prioritizes inclusivity, transparency, and empowerment, creating a company culture where employees feel supported and valued. We believe that an organization’s success lies in the well-being and development of its people. Through leadership that fosters growth and diversity, we encourage employee engagement and community involvement.
A key example of this is our work in Oman, where Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort partners with rural communities to provide job opportunities and educational programs. Collaborating with local schools, we help develop a skilled workforce for the hospitality sector. This initiative not only benefits the community but also empowers employees to become leaders and mentors.
Additionally, Minor Hotels works with local leaders and government agencies to align our efforts with broader social and economic development goals. By embedding a culture of empowerment in our leadership practices, we motivate employees to contribute to both the company’s success.
Our commitment to local empowerment is evident across the Middle East and Africa, with initiatives like our partnership with rural communities in Oman. Minor Hotels’ culture of engagement has been recognized globally, earning us Great Place to Work certification for two consecutive years.
How can ESG initiatives directly impact talent attraction and employee engagement?
ESG initiatives play a pivotal role in attracting talent and boosting employee engagement, as individuals increasingly seek employers whose values align with their own. In the Middle East & Africa, Minor Hotels’ commitment to sustainability, community support, and ethical practices enhances employee satisfaction.
A prime example is Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island in the UAE, which has partnered with the Emirates Wildlife Society to promote wildlife conservation and biodiversity protection. Employees involved in these efforts take pride in their role in preserving the island’s natural heritage.
Moreover, Minor Hotels celebrates Founders Day, an annual event where employees across all properties reflect on the company’s founding values and long-term community impact. On this day, teams participate in local environmental or social responsibility projects, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability. This event fosters unity, purpose, and engagement, aligning employees with our broader mission of responsible business practices.
By providing opportunities to participate in meaningful ESG initiatives, Minor Hotels not only attracts like-minded talent but also enhances employee loyalty. In 2024, over 10,000 hours of volunteerism impacted more than 8,600 people globally, strengthening our company culture and performance.
What are the biggest challenges hotels face in integrating ESG principles into workforce strategies?
Integrating ESG principles into workforce strategies is essential for long-term success in hospitality, though it presents various challenges. At Minor Hotels, we actively tackle these challenges, recognizing that overcoming them is key to building a sustainable and responsible future.
One primary hurdle is balancing local and global sustainability goals across our diverse portfolio. Different regions have varying regulations, cultural contexts, and resource availability, complicating implementation. For instance, while European markets benefit from established renewable energy infrastructure. Similarly, our sustainable seafood policy required close collaboration with local suppliers to ensure sustainability standards.
Despite these challenges, Minor Hotels remains steadfast in our commitment to ESG. Our goal of achieving Net Zero by 2050 drives our efforts, turning obstacles into leadership opportunities in sustainable hospitality.
A prime example is Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island, where most on-site power comes from a 45 MW wind turbine and a 14.8 MW solar field. The island also uses advanced condensers to produce drinking water for local wildlife, demonstrating a circular approach to resource use.
An ongoing challenge is ensuring ESG principles are integrated across all functions, which Minor Hotels supports through the Sustainability and Risk Management Oversight Committee.
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