Human capital, encompassing the skills, knowledge, and creativity of a workforce, is a critical asset that can propel an organization to success or lead it into challenges. Successful organizations understand that human capital management is not merely an administrative task but a strategic imperative. It involves aligning the workforce with the organization’s overarching goals and objectives. By recruiting, developing, and retaining talent that complements the strategic vision, organizations can ensure a harmonious and purpose-driven workforce.
The Capital Hotels, Apartments, and Resorts is a prime example of these successful organizations with effective HR Strategies, managed by Chief People Officer John Skelton.
John Skelton, the Chief People Officer at The Capital Hotels, Apartments and Resorts, has been recognized among South Africa’s top HR leaders reshaping workplaces in 2023. With a comprehensive professional background spanning almost three decades, his journey in HR has been fueled by a passion for fostering dynamic workplace cultures and empowering individuals to thrive within organizations.
Bringing Complete Cultural Transformation
John joined the organization in 2016 with a clear vision to complete cultural transformation within the company and lead the people strategy. With extensive knowledge of entrepreneurial cultures within South African businesses, he brings a wealth of experience in organization design and change management to his role. Prior to joining The Capital, he held notable positions at Dimension Data and Nandos SA. His passion for understanding the motivations of people to behave and link with human economics started when he completed his BSSc from Rhodes University with a double major in Organizational Psychology and Information Systems in 2004.
John is entrusted with steering the strategic direction of the organization’s people and culture. He provides direction for all aspects related to HR and oversees the people and culture of The Capital Hotels, Apartments and Resorts.
In his role, he spearheads initiatives to attract and retain top talent, as well as cultivate an inclusive, innovative, and growth-oriented workplace.
Additionally, he has been involved in leveraging technology, such as AI-powered platforms, to analyze employee performance metrics and market benchmarks for the ideal candidate, emphasizing the importance of a data- driven approach in shaping HR roadmaps.
Envisioning the workplace of the future within South Africa’s evolving business landscape entails embracing agility, diversity, and a strong focus on employee well- being. I advocate for a workplace that seamlessly integrates technology, fosters continuous learning, and champions a culture of collaboration and adaptability.
Leveraging Cutting-edge Tools
Technology and digital transformation are pivotal in enhancing HR processes and elevating employee experiences. By leveraging cutting-edge tools, he streamlines HR operations, from talent acquisition to performance management, ensuring a more agile and responsive approach to meet evolving organizational needs.
In a competitive job market, John’s approach revolves around a holistic employee value proposition. It emphasizes career development, a supportive work environment, and innovative benefits to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a workforce that is not only skilled but deeply engaged in the organizational mission.
The rise of remote work has generated the need to implement robust communication channels, virtual collaboration tools, and flexible work policies where needed. The Capital prioritizes maintaining open lines of communication, encouraging a healthy work-life balance, fostering a sense of connection, and ensuring sustained productivity and employee engagement. The organization also measures output and not time spent in the office. Employees who do not perform are managed accordingly.
Fostering a Continuous Learning Environment
In navigating a rapidly changing business environment, The Capital invests in continuous learning initiatives. Through training programs, mentorship, and partnerships with educational institutions, it empowers employees with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
The organization has a dedicated Training Academy, named The Hotel Academy School, where employees are trained in a purpose-built training facility. Its vision is to disrupt the hotel industry by building talent that the company is confident will lead the change it wants to see. It has a number of courses available to all potential students looking for a career in the hospitality space.
Enhancing Employee Satisfaction
At The Capital Hotels, Apartments and Resorts, there is a strong emphasis on gathering feedback and hearing the voice of the staff. The impact of HR initiatives on organizational success and employee satisfaction is measured through a comprehensive approach, which includes key performance expectations, regular feedback mechanisms, and data analytics. An annual Employee Satisfaction Survey is conducted to gather honest feedback from the staff, which is then used to inform the people initiatives for the following year.
John Skelton has been instrumental in leveraging technology, such as AI-powered platforms, to analyze employee performance metrics and market benchmarks, emphasizing the importance of a data-driven approach in shaping HR roadmaps.
Staying abreast of evolving HR regulations is non- negotiable. Regular engagement with industry forums, ongoing professional development, and maintaining a robust network of legal and compliance experts ensure that they stay not only compliant but also proactive in adapting to regulatory changes. The Capital partners with industry experts who assist with ensuring that it is compliant in all HR matters.
The Optimistic Future of HR
John offers advice to aspiring HR professionals, emphasizing the importance of embracing change, staying curious, and prioritizing empathy. He highlights the need to develop a deep understanding of an organization’s unique dynamics, foster strong relationships, and champion inclusivity. Skelton emphasizes that the role of an HR professional is not just about managing processes but about nurturing a culture where individuals thrive, and organizations flourish, always putting people first and having fun.
He believes that in the ever-evolving landscape of the professional world, Human Resources (HR) stands out as a dynamic and vital field, constantly adapting to the changing needs of both organizations and employees. For individuals seeking a career that is inherently people-oriented, the future of HR is nothing short of incredible as someone who has been recognized in the field with prestigious accolades such as the South African Revenue Association (SARA) Project of the Year for Unlimited Leave and a CHRO nomination for CHRO of the Year in 2023, his journey ahead in HR promises even greater opportunities.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the future of HR lies in its innovative approaches to employee well-being. The implementation of groundbreaking projects, such as the Unlimited Leave initiative celebrated by SARA, showcases a forward-thinking mindset in HR. As organizations strive to create inclusive and employee-centric environments, The role of HR professionals becomes pivotal. They are at the forefront of designing policies that not only attract top talent but also prioritize the overall health and happiness of the workforce.
The paradigm shift towards a more technology-driven workplace further enhances the significance of HR. Automation and artificial intelligence are reshaping traditional HR functions, allowing professionals to focus on strategic and people-centric initiatives. The ability to leverage data analytics for informed decision-making is becoming a crucial skill for HR practitioners, enabling them to identify trends, predict employee needs, and contribute significantly to organizational success.
As organizations recognize the intrinsic link between a motivated, engaged workforce and business success, the role of HR in the C-suite becomes more prominent. The future holds a plethora of opportunities for HR professionals to ascend to leadership positions and make a lasting impact on the overall success and culture of their organizations.
John believes that the future of HR is an exciting journey for those seeking a career deeply rooted in human interactions. With technological advancements, innovative projects, and a growing acknowledgment of the vital role HR plays in organizational success, this field offers a path for individuals to make a meaningful impact.
