What does HR actually do in hospitality?
In this bonus episode of Talking Hospitality, recorded live at Confex 2026, Timothy R Andrews sits down with Jonathan Napier, HR Director at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower in London and a volunteer advocate for HR in Hospitality — a non-profit organisation championing people professionals across the sector.
HR can often be misunderstood. Many people still see it as policies, paperwork, or the department you only hear from when something has gone wrong. But as Jonathan explains in this conversation, the reality is very different.
At its core, HR in hospitality is about people — supporting teams, developing careers, guiding leaders and helping businesses build workplaces where individuals can succeed.
Jonathan shares how HR in Hospitality, a volunteer-led network that has been supporting HR professionals for nearly three decades, brings people together through industry events, education and collaboration. From employment law updates and mock tribunals to networking events and annual awards, the organisation plays an important role in strengthening people leadership across hospitality.
The conversation also explores why hospitality is one of the few industries where people can build meaningful careers without the traditional academic route — and why operational experience is so valuable for anyone considering a future in HR.
Finally, Timothy and Jonathan discuss one of the biggest topics in business right now: AI in the workplace. Rather than replacing HR roles, Jonathan explains why technology will likely support HR professionals by removing administrative tasks and allowing them to focus on what matters most — people.
This episode is a reminder that behind every successful hospitality business are the individuals supporting the teams that make it all happen.
In This Episode
• What HR really does in hospitality
• Why HR is often misunderstood in organisations
• The work of the HR in Hospitality advocacy group
• How hospitality offers careers without traditional academic pathways
• Why operational experience makes stronger HR leaders
• How AI will change — but not replace — HR roles
About the Guest
Jonathan Napier is HR Director at Jumeirah Carlton Tower in London and an active volunteer with HR in Hospitality, a network dedicated to supporting and championing HR professionals working across the hospitality industry.
About Talking Hospitality
Talking Hospitality is a podcast exploring the people, careers and ideas shaping the hospitality industry today.
Hosted by Timothy R Andrews, the show features honest conversations with hospitality professionals from across the sector — sharing experiences, challenges and practical insights for those working in the industry.
Connect With Talking Hospitality
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