Director of Talent Acquisition at Planta Restaurants

Francine Rodriguez

In the dynamic landscape of talent acquisition, professionals face multifaceted challenges, especially in industries like hospitality that are constantly evolving. We delve into the experiences and strategies of a seasoned talent acquisition director, Francine Rodriguez, Director of Talent Acquisition at Planta Restaurants, to understand the intricacies of their role, the evolving industry landscape, and the strategies employed to overcome hurdles.

Could you walk us through your typical day and key responsibilities as the Director of Talent Acquisition at Planta Restaurants?

My career trajectory began in the hospitality industry as an hourly employee while simultaneously pursuing my education. Progressing through various roles, I eventually transitioned into management, primarily focused on restaurant openings across the country. During this time, I developed a keen interest in the candidate experience, observing firsthand how individuals acclimated to new environments and absorbed organizational culture.

Recognizing my inclination towards talent acquisition, I perceived it as akin to matchmaking, emphasizing the importance of compatibility between candidates and companies. This perspective led me to explore recruitment, initially through a hospitality-focused agency operating on a retained basis. Immersed in client cultures, I conducted interviews and engaged with leadership to discern their specific needs, thereby honing my recruitment skills while also deepening my understanding of operational dynamics.

Navigating the unique challenges of the hospitality industry, such as limited candidate visibility on platforms like LinkedIn, necessitated innovative approaches to sourcing talent. Conducting market analyses and leveraging diverse channels became integral to my recruitment strategy, embodying a proactive, research-driven approach to talent acquisition.

After four years with the agency, an opportunity arose at Plana, where I assumed the role of Talent Acquisition Manager. Tasked with establishing a previously nonexistent department, my initial focus involved evaluating existing processes and fostering a cohesive approach to talent acquisition across the organization. Central to this endeavor was advocating for the importance of the candidate experience, viewing it as the foundation of lasting relationships, regardless of employment outcomes.

Over time, I have cultivated a dedicated talent acquisition team, integrating elements of agency recruitment into a corporate framework. This holistic approach entails guiding candidates through every stage of the journey, from initial contact to onboarding and beyond, ensuring continuity and fostering trust throughout the process.

What are some major challenges you've faced in the industry, particularly post-pandemic?

Certainly, navigating the challenges post-COVID has required a significant shift in perspective within the hospitality industry. One of the foremost obstacles has been recalibrating our approach to talent acquisition, particularly in reevaluating the criteria we use to assess candidates. Historically, we prioritized resumes reflecting linear career progression and lengthy tenures. However, the pandemic prompted us to adopt a more holistic view, emphasizing qualitative attributes and engaging in meaningful conversations with candidates to understand their journey and motivations. This shift has been essential in broadening our talent pool and adapting to the evolving landscape.

Furthermore, the hospitality sector experienced a substantial exodus of talent during the pandemic, leading to a scarcity of qualified candidates. As a result, we've had to reconsider our hiring criteria and be more open to candidates without traditional hospitality backgrounds. While industry-specific experience remains valuable, we've placed greater emphasis on assessing candidates' adaptability, willingness to learn, and alignment with our organizational values.

Another significant challenge has been employee retention and turnover, a trend observed across various industries. The contemporary workforce, particularly the younger generation, exhibits a propensity for job mobility and prioritizes factors beyond traditional incentives like compensation. To address this, we've implemented initiatives focused on fostering a supportive and fulfilling work environment. This includes comprehensive benefits packages covering medical, dental, and vision expenses, with the company covering a hundred percent of employee costs for salaried positions. Additionally, we offer ClassPass memberships to promote physical and mental well-being, along with parental leave benefits for both maternal and paternal caregivers. These initiatives aim to cultivate a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to remain with our organization.

Ourapproach to addressing post-COVID challenges involves a combination of adaptability, empathy, and proactive measures aimed at both attracting and retaining top talent while prioritizing employee well-being and organizational resilience.

What advice would you offer to peers and colleagues in the industry?

Myadvice to fellow peers and colleagues in the industry would be to prioritize genuine human connection in all interactions. Rather than viewing candidates solely as numbers or resumes, strive to establish meaningful bonds through active listening and empathy. Take the time to truly understand their experiences, motivations, and aspirations. Communication is paramount; ensure transparency throughout the recruitment process by promptly providing updates, feedback, and acknowledgment of their contributions. Even in instances where a candidate may not proceed further, extend the courtesy of a rejection email, accompanied by constructive feedback if possible. Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to foster trust, respect, and goodwill within the industry. By treating individuals with dignity and empathy, we not only enhance the candidate experience but also contribute to a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect.