Strategic HRM as a growth catalyst: an interdisciplinary analysis of talent management and learning practices at Saffron Hospitality

Purpose The purpose of this case is to revisit and analyse aspects of human resource management practices which have been very well leveraged and are noteworthy in the case of Saffron Hospitality, an entrepreneurial hospitality enterprise based out of New Delhi/NCR, India. A deep dive into their Talent Management and Learning and Development Practices will highlight the role of strategic human resource management as a business cornerstone and hold tremendous learning for new startup founders and entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry. Design/methodology/approach Exploratory research using primary data and in-person interviews was conducted to study trends in hiring, attrition, restructuring and other strategic human resource management tools used by Saffron Hospitality to manage their businesses effectively, now across various locations in India. Findings Strategic Human Resource Management integrated with good Learning and Development practices plays a significant role as a growth catalyst in providing a strong foundation for the hospitality-based enterprise to manage business turbulence, change, growth and various challenges and still continue to remain financially viable and profitable. Research limitations/implications Due to the qualitative and exploratory nature of the case, a small convenience sample of data was used. There is limited focus on quantitative techniques or data analysis. Originality/value The case, based on a single enterprise of hospitality outlets and restaurants based in India, is a unique one that highlights the benefits of a cross-functional and interdisciplinary approach in management.