Episode 22: Frances Gillespie – From the Pub Floor to HR Specialist: How People and Culture Drive Hospitality

Guest: Frances Gillespie – Founder of Frances Gillespie HR Consultancy Overview:In this episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, I chat with Frances Gillespie, a seasoned hospitality HR consultant with a passion for helping businesses build engaged, thriving teams. Frances shares her journey from working on the pub floor to heading HR for major pub groups, and how her love for people led her to create her own HR consultancy. From managing complex employment law changes to empowering managers with tools for compassionate leadership, Frances highlights why HR is essential for building a positive culture, boosting retention, and driving hospitality businesses forward. ✨ What you’ll learn in this episode: Frances’ inspiring story: from starting in a golf club bar to leading HR for renowned pub companies. Why HR is not just about compliance but key to creating engaged, high-performing teams. The importance of “nipping it in the bud” and having tough but compassionate conversations. How to move away from annual appraisals and build meaningful 1-to-1 check-ins that drive engagement. Why HR training for managers is critical to avoiding costly mistakes. A practical look at current employment law challenges in hospitality (like tipping regulations and sexual harassment policy changes). 🗣 Key Quote:"HR done well is about valuing your people, setting boundaries, and helping them thrive – because when your team feels valued, your business sings." 🎧 Where to listen: Spotify Apple Podcasts Your favorite podcast platform 📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube:👉 https://www.youtube.com/@CassieDavison-KithKin 🔗 Connect with Frances: LinkedIn: Frances Gillespie Website: www.francesgillespiehrconsultancy.com About the Host:Cassie Davison brings over 30 years of award-winning experience in hospitality, including running AA Rosette restaurants, winning Entrepreneur of the Year, and being featured in the Which Good Food Guide and Visit England’s Best Pub. Through Kith & Kin, Cassie champions growth, community, and purpose in hospitality – helping businesses and leaders be the best they can be.