In recognition of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Month, we are proud to spotlight Haley, Sr. Manager, HR Consulting.
Haley’s path at Hilton exemplifies how curiosity, purpose, and connection can shape a career in unexpected ways. She began on the Feasibility team, helping expand Hilton’s global footprint. Drawn to creating meaningful experiences for others, Haley found an opportunity to connect people and business strategy, leading her to HR Consulting.
Read on to learn how Hilton supported her transition, the role community has played in her journey, and why hospitality—and Hilton—continue to fuel her passion for the work she does.
You began your Hilton journey in feasibility. What first sparked your interest in moving to HR consulting, and what skills or perspectives from your early roles in feasibility still influence the way you approach your work today?
“I was very inspired when Hilton was named the #1 workplace. I remember being at the in-person celebration in McLean and realizing just how much HR shapes the Team Member experience. As someone who is very purpose-driven, the opportunity to create meaningful, positive work experiences for others resonated with me. I have always been deeply curious about understanding people and drawn to solving problems, and HR Consulting seemed like the perfect blend of people and business challenges.
In my current role, I support the Development team and help align HR strategy with Hilton’s growth strategy. Coming from a hotel real estate and feasibility background, I bring a strong understanding of the business to the role. Having previously partnered with Development, it has been exciting to work with them in a completely new way.”
How did Hilton support your transition into HR consulting and help you navigate that change with confidence?
“Hilton played a huge role in supporting my transition, and the API Team Member Resource Group (TMRG) was especially impactful. TMRGs at Hilton are open to all Team Members, including community members and allies. When I first became interested in HR, the only people I knew in the space were API TMRG leaders, and they were incredibly supportive. They connected me with Team Members across HR, and I had the opportunity to work on a stretch project, which gave me valuable hands-on experience.”
What about hospitality, and Hilton specifically, has kept you engaged and excited throughout your career?
“My passion for hospitality started early – I grew up in six cities across the US and Belgium. Moving frequently and traveling exposed me to new cultures, foods, and people, and sparked my love for connection. To me, that is the essence of hospitality.
I have always believed hospitality has the power to build bridges between people from different backgrounds, which is why I’m so grateful to work for a company that brings that to life every day. What keeps me at Hilton is the alignment with its mission and values, the opportunity to keep learning, and the people. I am constantly inspired by the leaders and Team Members around me.”
Outside your role in HR consulting, you also help build connections and community across Hilton. How has that involvement shaped your sense of purpose and the way you show up at work?
“I have been an active member and volunteer with the API TMRG since I started at Hilton in 2021, and as of January this year, I became one of the TMRG leaders. The API TMRG has always been a special space for me. I have loved attending events, from celebrations to professional development sessions, and I have felt such a strong sense of pride in being able to share my background, which is such an important part of who I am.
Through the TMRG, I have also built meaningful relationships with friends, mentors, and leaders who have inspired me. The API TMRG has been an integral part of my Hilton journey, and now as an API TMRG leader, I’m excited to give back to the community that has given so much to me.”
How can Team Members make the most of the resources, people, and experiences available to them as they grow their careers at Hilton?
“By staying open and following your curiosity. There are so many opportunities to learn and grow at Hilton, and I have found that being proactive – reaching out to people and exploring different areas – can lead to meaningful and unexpected experiences.”
