Applied to:
This award recognises a structured talent and leadership strategy that strengthens organisational performance by attracting, developing and retaining talent, while redefining HR practices and leadership models within the industry.
The project:
The Korner Academy revolutionizes talent management by fostering autonomy and skill-building in the hospitality industry. Operated within Korner Hotels, the academy is rooted in a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) structure, empowering employees—called Korner Hosts—to shape their roles, contribute to group decisions, and align their careers with personal aspirations.
Korner Hotels stand out for their horizontal management approach, eliminating traditional hierarchies. Employees take on multiple responsibilities, from overseeing operations to contributing to sales, marketing, or customer experience, guided by a democratic voting system. This innovative model ensures that decisions are grounded in field realities and directly involve those executing them.
To support its Hosts, Korner Academy provides comprehensive training, including an eight-day onboarding period facilitated by a Mentor Role. This mentor coordinates activities, answers questions, and ensures new employees become confident and autonomous. The Korner Management System (KMS) enhances this process, offering a digital library, automated task alerts, and structured feedback mechanisms. This tool streamlines operations while fostering self-learning.
The academy emphasizes continuous skill development through workshops, practical experience, and cross-functional exposure. By integrating hard and soft skill training, it prepares employees for future roles both within and beyond the organization. Every experience at Korner is designed to unlock potential, offering a unique blend of autonomy and professional growth.
Korner Academy’s mission transcends hospitality, aiming to attract proactive individuals, even those without hospitality backgrounds, by giving meaning to their work. It opens doors to certified qualifications and diverse career opportunities, ensuring employees thrive in a dynamic, innovative, and supportive environment. This model sets a benchmark for modern talent management, making Korner Hotels a pioneer in redefining workplace culture.
The Hospitality Awards celebrate innovation and excellence and highlight the most creative initiatives in a sector that is constantly and rapidly changing hospitality.
