Creating Relationships and Building Trust
As regional manager of People & Culture, Roma Owsianowska’s goal is to make sure employees at every level know there is someone in the company they can contact when in need.
Roma, who joined the company two years ago, spends most of her days visiting the 18 hotel properties in her region and anticipating, identifying and resolving issues to ensure employee work satisfaction, work-life balance and career development.
While some employees historically viewed Human Resources with mistrust, that mentality is changing, she said. “Employees understand I am there to do a weekly pulse check and lend support, and they welcome me with a smile.”
M&R’s managers understand that culture cannot be forced; it must be inspired through authentic and meaningful relationships with employees.
“What I cherish the most about my work is creating these relationships and building trust and integrity with staff above and beyond the job,” Roma said. “I try to make sure everyone is supported. I want everyone to feel equally important. If anyone has a concern, we want to make sure that it is addressed.”
Employees appreciate being recognized, she said. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, National Pizza Day or Random Act of Kindness Day, the goal is to create a thriving culture and foster employee engagement.
Mental health also is so important. “Last year we implemented yoga and meditation classes that were a huge success,” Roma said. “We also introduced a new part of our culture: Walk for a Cause-2023 Making Strides of Central Park, our first breast awareness walk that took place last October. We ordered special T-shirts with the M&R logo and walked through Central Park to build awareness but also a sense of support and community.
“Through regular onboarding orientations, I make sure people are familiar with the company goals and culture: who we are, what we do, and how we celebrate employees.”
Roma said the People & Culture team’s open-door policy encourages employees to share what is happening. “My advice to employees is to pick up the phone or send us an email,” she said. “Don’t wait too long -- come talk to us. I always tell employees I am very transparent. Whatever the issue, we will find an effective resolution with openness and professionalism.”
