Marriott Fiji moves to reduce reliance on expatriate managers

The tourism sector is stepping up efforts to build a stronger local workforce pipeline, with Marriott Fiji launching a new leadership programme aimed at reducing reliance on expatriate workers in management roles.

The iSausauvou Leadership Programme is designed to fast-track local employees into supervisory and management positions across Marriott Fiji properties.

Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort and Sheraton Denarau Villas director of human resources, Biu Waqaniburotu, said the initiative responds directly to ongoing labour shortages and the need to strengthen local capability within the industry.

He said the programme will help develop the next generation of Fijian tourism leaders while reducing the need for overseas recruitment.

“When we talk about talent development, we’re talking about investing in our people and preparing them to become future leaders,” Mr Waqaniburotu said.

“This year we will launch the iSausauvou Leadership Programme, which means new young emerging leaders. The programme is dedicated to developing local leaders.”

The programme is open to associates below executive level, including assistant managers and department managers, with a focus on building internal career pathways.

Mr Waqaniburotu said labour shortages continue to affect the sector, requiring some level of overseas recruitment across Marriott properties.

“Across the Marriott properties, we currently employ about 40 overseas associates from India, other parts of Asia, Australia and Japan. That reflects the labour shortages we continue to experience,” he said.

However, he said the long-term goal is to ensure more Fijians move into leadership positions over the next five years.

“Our goal is to ensure local people move into leadership positions over the next five years so that we can reduce our reliance on overseas recruitment, which is also costly for the business,” he said.

The Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort has also recently been recognised at the 2025 Fiji Human Resources Institute (FHRI) Awards, winning Gold for Human Resources Talent Development, placing first runner-up in Environment and Sustainability in Practice, and receiving a Recognition Award for Well-being and Engagement.

Mr Waqaniburotu said the awards reflect Marriott’s broader commitment to workforce development and building a strong internal talent pipeline.

“When Marriott receives recognition, it’s not just about the property itself. It’s about the programmes that support our people,” he said.

“We want to be recognised as an organisation that develops its employees and creates a positive workplace culture where people can thrive.”

While overseas recruitment will continue in the short term, he said the strategic focus remains on strengthening local skills and leadership capacity within Fiji’s tourism industry.