Hilton tops World’s Best Workplace list and research shows why it matters for guests

Hilton has topped the World’s Best Workplaces list for the second consecutive year, with new research revealing just how strongly consumer behaviour is tied to how companies treat their employees.

The global hotel giant, which employs around 500,000 people across 141 countries, has released fresh data showing that workplace culture doesn’t just matter internally — it directly influences traveller decision-making and guest satisfaction.

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Consumers want brands that look after their people

A Morning Consult study commissioned by Hilton found:

• 78 percent of U.S. consumers believe companies that take good care of their employees offer better products and services.

• Nearly 90 percent say employee wellbeing is especially important in travel and hospitality.

• 75 percent are more likely to recommend businesses known for positive workplace cultures.

The findings support what many operators already know: happy team members deliver better service, build guest loyalty and strengthen brand reputation.

Inside Hilton’s workplace numbers

Hilton’s decade-long run on the World’s Best Workplaces list stems from a company-wide focus on development, wellbeing and long-term career progression. According to internal data:

• 93% of team members globally say Hilton is a great place to work.

• 91% believe they can continue to learn and grow within the company.

• 87% feel they can achieve their career goals at Hilton.

• Almost two-thirds of U.S. hotel and corporate leadership roles were filled internally.

• 32% of U.S. employees have been with the company for more than 10 years.

• 85% say they feel balanced and healthy at work.

Hilton president and CEO Chris Nassetta said the recognition reflects the company’s century-old ethos.

“When we take great care of our people, they take great care of our guests,” he said. “Our team members are united by a common purpose envisioned by our founder: to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality.”

Rapid expansion fuels career pathways

The brand’s growth trajectory is creating thousands of new roles globally, with Hilton opening nearly three hotels every day over the past year. Since September 2024, almost 20,000 new team members have joined the business.

Career development remains a major focus. Hilton says it has created more than 2.5 million learning and growth opportunities since 2022 through initiatives such as:

• LAUNCH, a 24-month rotational program building future leaders.

• Hilton University & LinkedIn Learning, providing access to nearly 30,000 free courses.

• Guild, offering tuition-free education programs for U.S. team members.

• Global language learning, with free group, private and self-guided lessons.

• BetterUp coaching for first-time or emerging leaders.

• Team Member Mentoring programs pairing staff with experienced mentors.

• General Manager Academy and People Leader Essentials programs.

Hilton’s benefits package, including the popular Go Hilton travel program and paid sabbaticals, also scored highly among employees.

Strong workplace culture drives strong guest experiences

Laura Fuentes, Hilton’s chief human resources officer, said the company’s long-term investment in its people is paying off across both culture and guest satisfaction.

“A culture built on growth and opportunity doesn’t just create great careers — it creates great guest experiences,” she said. “When team members feel valued and supported, they deliver exceptional service that moves our business forward.”

Hilton has been recognised as a Great Place to Work in 67 countries this year, taking the No. 1 spot in 18 of them, including the United States.

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