During the year, we will be presenting the different people making up our teams, because people are a priority at IBB Hotel Collection. As a company, we truly value our employees and are always put on the top of our list – and what better way to start off this initiative then with a TRUE people person – Our Director of Human Resources – Tiana Vella.
In April 2018, Tiana was entrusted by Von der Heyden Group (the mother company) to set up the Group’s HR Department. She gladly took on this challenge and since then has streamlined the HR function within the company.
The Group consists of over 40 companies spread over four pillars. As Director of HR, Tiana is responsible for the holistic HR function of Von der Heyden Group.
How it all started
Tiana ‘accidentally’ started her career in Human Resources in early 2003, when she joined an international telecommunications company in Malta. After four years working for the company, which at the time employed close to 500 people, she absolutely fell in love with everything the role offered and managed to garner experience in handling assignments in all areas of HR, from training and development to performance reviews, salaries, and benefits, whilst also assisting the HR Manager on an operational level.
In late 2006, Tiana furthered her career by moving to Malta’s biggest publishing house, employing around 250 people. As Deputy HR Manager, for 9 years she facilitated and organised the HR department within the 70-year-old organisation. She then joined another Maltese company as HR Manager and PA to the Chief Executive Officer, were she assisted in operations, marketing and PR as well as top-level management assignments.
Where she’s at now
Five years ago, Tiana was entrusted by the Von Der Heyden Group, to set up the HR Department.
She gladly accepted and has been streamlining the HR function for the Group, which consists of over 40 companies over four pillars – mainly real estate development, hotel ownership, operations and management and other investments, managing over 11 hotels in Europe and growing.
As the Director of HR at IBB Hotel Collection, Tiana is responsible in ensuring that the company’s human resources function runs smoothly and effectively, and that the company’s employees are engaged, motivated, and supported in their roles.
Being part of this amazing group for the past 5 years has been a truly fulfilling experience.
One of the things she loves most about working at the company is the opportunity it gives her to make a positive impact on the lives of employees. She is constantly reminded of the importance of her role in ensuring that the workforce is happy, engaged and fulfilled.
The company strives to build trust – the foundation of any successful relationship – with its employees, customers, and partners by being honest, transparent, and reliable. On top of that, all employees show great dedication towards providing customers a service which exceeds expectations, to build long lasting relationships.
What makes working life at IBB Hotel Collection even more special for Tiana is that she is part of a team of dedicated and passionate professionals who are committed to making the company a great place to work. In her own words: the support and camaraderie shared within the company is truly invaluable and has made the experience even more enjoyable.
Additionally, Tiana is also proud to be a part of a company that values employees and recognizes the importance of investing in their development and well-being. The company’s culture is one of inclusivity, diversity, and respect, and she is honoured to be a part of it.
HR Challenges
Tiana believes the future of human resources is now more important than ever before, as organizations must navigate an increasingly complex and ever-changing environment. The HR department plays a crucial role in driving the success of an organization by recruiting, developing, and retaining top talent, fostering a positive and inclusive work culture, and ensuring that the organization is adhering to ethical and sustainable practices.
Overseeing IBB Hotel Collection’s HR efforts also comes with its challenges. The current challenges that most companies are facing are attracting and retaining top talent. With low unemployment rates, competition for skilled workers is fierce. Also, employee engagement and well-being. With increasing focus on employee well-being, HR departments are being tasked with finding new ways to engage and support employees.
Tiana believes that the key to attracting and retaining top talent is to create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and have opportunities to grow and develop. This requires ongoing effort and communication to ensure that employee needs are being met and that they feel valued and supported in their roles. This is what the departments’ main goal is for 2023.
Motivation at the workplace
Asked how teams are kept motivated within the workplace, Tiana said that it is very important that employees are recognised, rewarded, and appreciated. Apart from that, employees should also be provided with opportunities for growth and development and are encouraged to communicate. People at the top should also lead by example and should set a good standard for employees to follows.
The IBB brand is passionate about people – our valued guests, for whom we strive to provide an exceptional hospitality experience, and our colleagues, who are an integral aspect of our Group. Tiana believes that our international corporate culture, our values and vision, and our guiding principles allow us to foster an environment of growth and success.
We are are a family – we view our employees as members of a family and strive to create a positive, supportive, and inclusive workplace. We believe that a strong sense of community and belonging is crucial to employee engagement and productivity.
The company also believes in treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or position. This includes treating employees, customers, and partners with fairness and courtesy.
Life outside of work
Outside of work, Tiana enjoys most of her time with her 3 kids.
She also loves to travel and explore new places, go on long hikes across the island and participate in races.
We look forward and hope to keep all of our people engaged as we grow and evolve. We are truly enthusiastic in showcasing and highlighting more of our employees in the coming months and hope that you will continue to follow us on this journey. Stay tuned!