What Does HR Really Do?

This bonus episode of Talking Hospitality, recorded live at Confex 2026, explores one of the most misunderstood roles in the industry: human resources.Timothy R Andrews speaks with Jonathan Napier, HR Director at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower and a volunteer advocate for HR in Hospitality, a non-profit network dedicated to championing people professionals across the sector.Jonathan shares what HR actually does inside hospitality businesses — and why the function is far more than hiring, payroll or policies. At its heart, HR is about supporting people, developing talent and ensuring teams have the guidance and structure they need to succeed.The conversation also explores the work of HR in Hospitality, a volunteer-led organisation that has spent three decades bringing HR professionals together through events, education and networking. Jonathan explains why advocacy for HR as a career matters, why operational experience is invaluable for future HR leaders, and how hospitality offers career progression without the traditional academic route.The episode also tackles one of the most talked-about topics in business today: AI. Jonathan shares why technology won’t replace HR, but why professionals who understand AI will have a powerful advantage in the future.At its core, this episode is about people — and the individuals working behind the scenes to support the teams that keep hospitality running.Show NotesIn this episode we discuss:What HR actually does in hospitality businessesWhy HR is often misunderstood within organisationsThe role of HR in Hospitality, a volunteer advocacy networkSupporting HR professionals through education, networking and industry eventsWhy operational experience makes better HR leadersHospitality as a career without traditional academic barriersThe future of HR in a world influenced by AIWhy technology should support HR — not replace itKey Takeaways1. HR is fundamentally about peopleAt its core, the role is to guide, support and protect employees while helping organisations operate effectively.2. HR has evolved significantlyWhat once focused mainly on payroll and administration has become a strategic function that supports culture, development and business performance.3. HR in Hospitality advocates for the professionThe volunteer-led organisation brings HR professionals together through learning events, industry collaboration and recognition programmes.4. Operational experience strengthens HR leadersJonathan argues that HR professionals who have worked in frontline hospitality roles often communicate more effectively with operational teams.5. Hospitality offers real career progressionUnlike many industries, hospitality allows people to build senior careers without traditional academic pathways.6. AI will change HR — but not replace itTechnology will streamline administrative tasks, allowing HR professionals to spend more time supporting people.Companies mentioned in this episode:MMG EventsJumeirah Cotton TowerHR in HospitalityGraphic KitchenHJ UK Hospitality Jobs UKNMG Events