In the highly competitive hospitality landscape in the Middle East, with long work hours and little recognition, Gastronomica ME has risen as both a culinary innovator and an exemplary employer. Known for its unique, upscale dining concepts, Gastronomica ME operates in various countries, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Bahrain, and Qatar. But despite its culinary prowess, Gastronomica ME has garnered recognition as one of the best companies to work for in Asia, largely due to its employee-centric culture, competitive benefits, and unwavering commitment to fostering a healthy work-life balance.
Diversity and Inclusivity In The Workplace
With over 1,600 employees representing 26 different nationalities, Gastronomica ME’s multicultural workforce is a testament to its inclusive policies. The company embraces diversity in its restaurant concepts and workforce, fostering an environment where employees from different cultures collaborate seamlessly. Research indicates that companies with diverse teams are 35% more likely to outperform their competitors in terms of financial returns. Gastronomica ME exemplifies this, using its diverse workforce to drive innovation and creativity.
Competitive Salaries and Perks
Regarding employee compensation, Gastronomica ME ensures that its team members are well-rewarded. The company offers salaries that are competitive with the regional hospitality market and, in some cases, exceed industry standards by 10-15%. In addition to the base salary, Gastronomica ME employees benefit from performance-based bonuses, housing allowances, and transportation stipends. These perks significantly enhance the total compensation package.
Healthcare benefits are another major draw, with Gastronomica ME providing comprehensive medical insurance for employees and their families. According to the company’s internal surveys, 87% of employees reported satisfaction with the health benefits provided, highlighting the company’s investment in employee well-being.
Focus On Work-Life Balance
According to a 2023 survey by PWC, 71% of Asian employees rated work-life balance as their top priority when considering job offers. In an industry where long working hours are often the norm, Gastronomica ME stands out for its focus on maintaining a sustainable work-life balance. For starters, the company offers flexible work schedules for employees who need them to manage their professional and personal lives.
Along with maintaining a sustainable work-life balance, Gastronomica ME participates in various wellness initiatives, such as “Wellness Wednesday,” which promotes mental and physical health through Yoga, fitness classes, and mental wellness classes. According to the company’s data, these initiatives increased employee engagement by 15% in 2023 compared to previous years.
Career Development And Growth
Gastronomica ME is heavily invested in the growth of its employees. The company spent an average of $1200 per employee on employee training and development programs. These programs include leadership workshops, culinary skills training, and opportunities for cross-departmental learning. Another issue that plagues employees is their career progression. However, Gastronomica’s commitment to fostering a workforce that excels in their job takes care of this issue. This is so much so that according to the company’s data, around 65% of its employees have been promoted within the organisation over the last three years.
Moreover, the company encourages its staff to explore new job roles and departments within the organisation. This allows employees to understand their current job roles better while helping them diversify their skills. One might think these methods are redundant, but Gastronomica has generated plausible results. For instance, Gastronomica ME’s retention rate has been around 84%, much higher than the industry average of 65% in the Middle East.
Supportive Work Environment
Beyond its tangible perks and benefits, Gastronomica ME is known for its positive and supportive work environment. The company prioritises team-building activities, from monthly staff dinners to annual retreats. Regular team-building events have increased job satisfaction and productivity, and Gastronomica ME has certainly seen the benefits. In a recent internal survey, 89% of employees felt a strong sense of community and support, significantly exceeding industry benchmarks.
Additionally, Gastronomica ME has instituted a feedback-friendly culture. Employees are encouraged to share their opinions and insights through regular feedback sessions, ensuring their voices are heard at all levels of management. The company’s open-door policy and continuous feedback loops have fostered an environment of transparency and trust, which is crucial in employee engagement and retention.
Redefining The Work Culture Norms In Hospitality
Gastronomica ME’s approach to employee satisfaction amalgamates competitive compensation, career development opportunities, and a supportive, inclusive work environment. As the company continues to expand across the Middle East, it remains committed to offering an exemplary employee experience. For those seeking a rewarding and dynamic career in hospitality, Gastronomica ME is more than just a place to work; it’s a place to grow, innovate, and thrive.
