Expatriate Hotel General Managers in Jamaica: Perceptions of Human Resource, Organizational, and Operational Challenges

Abstract

International hotel companies employ expatriates all over the world as general managers to help professionalize the hospitality industry. Yet, there is very little research on expatriate management in the Caribbean. The present exploratory study was undertaken to research expatriate managers’ perceptions of managing on the island of Jamaica. Nine expatriate general managers from four and five star hotels were interviewed. Punctuality, educational levels, productivity, and low skill levels were seen as key human resource challenges. Crime, bureaucratic red tape, and shortage of materials were seen as impacting the organizations’ operations. Expatriates adjustment to the Jamaican culture and maintaining standards were seen as key factors for success.