Hilton (NYSE: HLT) has been named the Best Workplace in Sri Lanka™ 2025 by Great Place to Work®, marking the first time the company has secured the top position in the large-sized business category. This achievement follows four consecutive years as Sri Lanka’s leading hospitality employer and highlights Hilton’s ongoing commitment to fostering a purpose-driven, people-first workplace. The accolade comes at a time when Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is experiencing rapid growth, increasing the demand for skilled local talent. Hilton’s recognition not only strengthens its reputation as a top employer but also reflects its dedication to creating meaningful careers and retaining talent in the country.
This honour is part of a broader wave of recognition across South East Asia this year, with Hilton also named the best workplace in Vietnam and the top hospitality employer in the Philippines. Central to Hilton’s success are the stories of its people, such as Vishmi Prabha, a young woman from the rural village of Yodakandiya. Vishmi began her journey in hospitality through Hilton Yala Resort’s Hospitality Apprenticeship for Youth (HAPPY) programme, launched in 2023 by the resort’s general manager, Gitanjali Chakravarthy. The programme provides young people from surrounding communities with hands-on experience, mentorship, and life skills training over a three-month traineeship. Vishmi rotated through key departments including food and beverage, housekeeping, and front office operations, gaining practical skills and learning to thrive in a dynamic, international environment.
Mentored by Gitanjali, Vishmi’s perspective on leadership was transformed. She said, “My perception of a leader changed entirely when I began working under the guidance of our general manager – a remarkable woman. She leads with strength and grace, and made me see that inspirational leadership is rooted in integrity, empathy, and resilience, which are qualities that transcend gender.” Vishmi is now a full-time waitress at Hilton Yala Resort and a role model in her village, inspiring others to pursue careers in hospitality. Since its launch, the HAPPY programme has trained 33 individuals, with five now employed full-time by Hilton.
Alexandra Murray, Hilton’s Area Vice President and Regional Head of South East Asia, commented on the award, saying, “To be recognised as the best place to work in Sri Lanka is an achievement that we could not have accomplished on our own. It reflects the dedication of every team member who chooses to give their best each day. Stories like Vishmi’s remind us that great workplaces are not built by policies alone, but by the belief we place in people and the opportunities we create to help them grow.”
Hilton supports its team members through a variety of global and regional initiatives aimed at promoting wellbeing, leadership development, and inclusion. These include Thrive at Hilton, which focuses on physical, mental, and financial wellness; Lead@Hilton, a global leadership learning platform; Care for All, an industry-leading caregiving support programme; Careers@Hilton, which raises awareness about hospitality careers among youth; and Go Hilton, a popular travel programme allowing team members to explore the world. In South East Asia, Hilton has also introduced programmes tailored to regional needs, such as GoFlexi!, a flexible work initiative designed to support wellness and productivity; the Hilton SEA Management Trainee Programme, which develops young leaders; and Women in Leadership, a mentorship and networking initiative for female leaders.
The Best Workplaces in Sri Lanka™ 2025 rankings were determined by Great Place to Work® through confidential employee feedback gathered via the Trust Index© survey and the Culture Audit© questionnaire. This recognition not only celebrates Hilton’s achievements as an employer but also highlights its ongoing role in transforming lives and communities throughout Sri Lanka.
