Brittain Resorts & Hotels

Brittany Park, Director of Human Resources

Leading Through Hospitality's Workforce Shift

Brittany Park

Brittany Park

People Growth Advocate

My approach to human resources is rooted in a simple philosophy: we are here to support those who support our owners and guests, and to make the right decision for all parties involved. That mindset has shaped how I build engaged, highperforming teams by focusing on balance. In hospitality, success is not just about metrics. It is about people feeling supported, valued and equipped to do their best work.

An engaged team in our environment does not look perfect. In reality, it often looks like organized chaos. Each day brings new challenges, but when teams are aligned and committed to one another, they navigate those challenges together. You see it in the energy of the team. Individuals are willing to learn, they support each other’s success and they show up ready to contribute. Creating that environment requires intentional leadership development, clear communication and a culture that prioritizes both accountability and support.

One of the biggest challenges in hospitality today is talent management, particularly in seasonal markets. In areas like Myrtle Beach, workforce demand fluctuates significantly throughout the year, making it difficult to maintain consistent staffing levels. Programs like H-2B can provide relief, but they also introduce complexity and uncertainty. To address this, we have had to rethink traditional hiring strategies. Instead of relying solely on rigid fulltime roles, we have embraced flexibility by adapting schedules and structures to better align with the realities of today’s workforce.  

At the same time, we are actively advocating for improvements to workforce programs that would allow for more stability in seasonal industries.

Beyond recruitment, another key area is developing and retaining talent. We are placing a strong emphasis on internal growth, particularly at the middle management level. By creating clear career pathways and investing in leadership development, we help team members see a future within the organization. When associates understand where they can go, they are more likely to stay engaged and committed.

HR leaders have a unique opportunity to influence both people and business outcomes, and that influence starts with having the confidence to contribute.

Strong culture and clear growth opportunities go hand in hand. When team members feel supported in their development, they are more connected to the organization and more invested in its success.

At its core, fostering culture comes down to consistency. Our goal is to create a genuine sense of community, one where team members feel supported not just as employees, but as individuals. That sense of connection strengthens engagement and ultimately translates into better service for our guests.

Looking ahead, several trends are influencing HR practices in meaningful ways. Workforce expectations are evolving, with employees placing greater value on flexibility, development opportunities and overall well-being. Burnout is also becoming a more prominent concern, particularly in high-demand industries like hospitality. As a result, organizations must be more intentional about providing resources and support systems that help employees manage both workload and stress. In addition, shifts in seasonal workforce patterns are requiring more dynamic and adaptive staffing strategies.

To stay ahead, we are continuously evaluating our approach and ensuring that our benefits, development programs and staffing models align with the needs of our workforce while still supporting business goals. It is about finding the balance between innovation and practicality.

For professionals looking to build leadership careers in human resources, my advice is simple. Do not be afraid to speak up. The most effective solutions often come from those closest to the day-today challenges. Bringing forward ideas, especially when paired with thoughtful and solution-oriented thinking, can create meaningful impact. HR leaders have a unique opportunity to influence both people and business outcomes, and that influence starts with having the confidence to contribute.

Ultimately, leadership in HR is about doing the right thing, even when it is not the easiest choice. Those decisions define the culture you build, the teams you develop and the long-term success of the organization. 

The articles from these contributors are based on their personal expertise and viewpoints, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations.