Executive Summary:
In spring of 2008 the Okanagan Partnership, partnering with Okanagan College and Service Canada, conducted a survey of 236 operators in the tourism sector in the Okanagan. The survey covered a wide range of categories including lodging, food and beverage, agri-tourism, arts and culture, camping and tours. The size of the organizations ranged from one to 250 employees. The result of the survey produced the following findings.
- Employee retention and attraction is becoming more difficult, especially for seasonal workers.
- Many operators are recognizing that additional knowledge and strategies will be required to address the current labour challenges.
- The typical source of labour (high school and university students) is having to shift to include retired or semi-retired, recent immigrants and women returning to the workforce.
- Employers believe there is a role for government to plan by increasing the availability of affordable housing (rentals) and improving transportation options in the valley.
- Wages in the tourism industry are trending upwards, often faster than revenues.
After hosting roundtable throughout the valley to gain better insight and conducting a series of interviews with key industry leaders and other tourism support organizations, the following recommendations were established:
- Increase the use of existing HR resources and programs by improving awareness and access to the programs.
- Increase the access and awareness of the temporary foreign workers programs, especially for seasonal work.
- Increase the utilization of mature workers in the sector by encouraging targeted recruitment strategies.
- Create a feedback loop from visitors in order to improve on the experience through employee training.
- Advocate for affordable housing and public transportation improvements.
The Okanagan Partnership believes that through collaboration and thoughtful implementation of these recommendations, the tourism sector can thrive. |
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