Ålandhotels wants the staff to flourish

Caroline Lepistö sees the award for Employer of the Year as the result of long-term work.

– Many workplaces do good things, but this time we got the opportunity to share how we work with our staff. It's rewarding to be recognised for that.

Experience and new additions 

Ålandhotels operates hotel and restaurant businesses in Mariehamn and employs approximately 50 staff year-round. During the summer, the organisation grows by up to 120 people.

Many employees have stayed for several years, while new seasonal workers join every summer. The combination creates both stability and dynamism.

A secure start in working life 

For many young people, Ålandhotels is their very first workplace. Others are new to Åland, while some do not yet speak Swedish. This demands clarity.

All employees receive employment contracts, an introduction, and access to a staff handbook available in both Swedish and English. It describes rights, obligations, and practical routines.

– We have a responsibility to teach newcomers how working life functions. They should know what they can expect from an employer, but also what we expect from them.

Ålandhotels also uses a digital information tool that automatically translates content into the language set on the employee's mobile phone. This makes it easier to include people who do not yet speak Swedish.

Community across departmental boundaries 

Working in hotels and restaurants means a fast pace, especially in summer. That is why Ålandhotels also invests in social sustainability and community. Staff activities, joint gatherings, and team-building events are organised regularly. Sometimes people meet within their own departments, sometimes across departmental boundaries.

– The distance shrinks when you get to know each other. You put faces to the people working in other parts of the business.

The company also offers the same benefits to seasonal staff as to permanent staff, for example regarding wellness.

– Even someone who works for a shorter period should feel included.

An important part of Åland's labour market 

The tourism industry is one of Åland's core industries. At the same time, the sector is highly seasonal.

– The big challenge is to even out the season. If we can extend it, we can also offer more secure year-round workplaces, says Caroline Lepistö.

The recruitment situation has improved in recent years, but certain professional groups – particularly chefs – remain difficult to find.

Despite this, she looks positively towards the future.
– In five years, I hope we can offer even more year-round positions and that our staff continue to thrive and develop.

Do you want to work in the tourism industry? 

Ålandhotels continuously recruits staff for hotels, restaurants, kitchens, reception, and housekeeping.

For those looking for their first job, wanting to change industry, or considering working in Åland, it may be worth choosing an industry that is social, developmental, and full of encounters with people.