By: Rania Roufael, Chief People Officer, Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG)
The hospitality industry is built on people – those who work together to curate unforgettable experiences for guests around the globe. At Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG), we know that nurturing the right talent is critical to maintaining the high standards we are known for. That is why we launched the “Rising Sunsetters” internship program, an initiative designed to empower the next generation of hospitality professionals and fuel the future of the industry.
In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, attracting and retaining talent requires more than just offering jobs. Young professionals are looking for meaningful careers, growth opportunities, and workplaces where they can have a real impact. This internship program represents our commitment to creating an environment that offers just that – a chance to work alongside seasoned professionals, gain real-world experience, and develop the skills needed to thrive in this dynamic industry.
“Rising Sunsetters” is more than just an internship; it is a career launchpad. We offer undergraduates and recent graduates six months of immersive experience, spanning our diverse portfolio – from Hotels & Resorts to Dining, Daylife, Nightlife, and beyond. This program allows participants to explore different sectors, giving them a 360-degree view of how a global hospitality brand operates. For many, this journey doesn’t end after six months-25% of our interns have already secured permanent positions within SHG. This isn’t by coincidence; it’s a testament to our dedication to identifying and developing talent that aligns with SHG’s values and vision.
At SHG, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As Chief People Officer, I’ve always believed that investing in human capital is one of the most important ways to ensure sustained success. A well-designed internship program like “Rising Sunsetters” benefits both the individual and the organisation. For the interns, it’s an opportunity to receive hands-on training, engage in mentorship, and build the confidence they need to embark on successful careers. For SHG, the benefits are equally significant—these young professionals bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and an eagerness to learn, which often reinvigorates our teams and our practices.
Creating a program like “Rising Sunsetters” is no small feat. It takes careful planning and, most importantly, a commitment from our teams to mentor and guide these future leaders. We ensure that interns are placed in a supportive, dynamic environment where they can thrive. Our experienced employees serve as mentors, dedicating their time to helping each intern navigate their career journey with personalised guidance. It’s a process that requires time, energy, and, above all, passion.
In a fast-paced industry, where guest expectations are higher than ever, the importance of nurturing talent cannot be overstated. I believe this program not only prepares young professionals for the realities of the hospitality industry but also prepares SHG for continued success in the years to come. The infusion of fresh talent and ideas is key to keeping our company agile, innovative, and ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to empowering our people and growing our teams with purpose. “Rising Sunsetters” is just one way we’re doing that, and I’m incredibly proud of the success we’ve seen so far.
Rania Roufael is the Chief People Officer of People, Culture, and Sustainability at Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG). With more than 20 years of experience in human resources, she plays a key role in shaping SHG’s high-performing, people-centric culture. Her leadership focuses on aligning HR initiatives with the organisation’s business objectives for sustainable growth and international expansion while providing impactful journeys to over 6000 employees across 27 countries.
Rania is recognised for her expertise in attracting, developing, and retaining top talent, as well as leading quality initiatives that drive performance excellence. Her passion for building development programs and nurturing employees empowers SHG’s teams to thrive while supporting the Group’s overarching mission of delivering exceptional hospitality experiences worldwide.
