By Azara Lavia
An employee at a prominent local resort has raised concerns over what he perceives as unfair management practices, lack of career growth opportunities, and favouritism in hiring among other issues.
The restaurant manager, who has worked in the hospitality industry in Antigua and Barbuda as well as outside of the country for approximately 30 years, spoke candidly to Observer media about the grievances of line staff at the popular resort, and expressed frustration with being overlooked for promotion and the influx of expatriate hires in managerial positions.
“Management always talks about growth and development, but when it comes down to it, experienced and qualified locals are repeatedly passed over,” he explained. “Instead, they bring in expatriates who, in some cases, are not even qualified. We end up training them on how things work, yet they’re the ones given leadership roles.”
The worker also pointed out a disparity in staffing ratios between local and non-national employees, questioning why so many non-nationals hold key positions while qualified Antiguans and Barbudans remain underutilized.
“The company speaks about exchange programs, but in reality, they aren’t happening the way they should. More non-nationals are being placed in positions here than locals being given opportunities abroad,” he noted.
In addition to concerns over hiring practices, he highlighted an incident where a corporate chef used profanity toward a senior line staff member in front of colleagues.
“It’s disheartening to see this happening in a workplace that promotes respect and professionalism,” he said. “Where is HR in all of this?”
Another issue raised was the company’s fraternization policies, which he claims are not being enforced. “We are trained against fraternization, yet there are managers dating and even having children with line staff within the same department. If the rules exist, why aren’t they being applied across the board?”
While acknowledging that the company offers extensive training, the frustrated employee questioned the effectiveness of these programs when promotions remain inaccessible to those who complete them.
“Yes, training opportunities are there, and employees take advantage of them, but at the end of the day, nothing changes. Those who are favoured get the promotions, and the rest of us are left behind.”
The employee expressed the hope that by bringing these issues to light, the authorities in the tourism sector will take action by creating a level playing field for residents.
“I don’t discriminate; I’ve worked outside Antigua myself — but we have qualified locals here who deserve opportunities. If we want a strong local workforce in the hospitality sector, we need to start by valuing and promoting our own people,” he said.
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