#046 - I'm In - How to Manage a Tribunal

This Podcast is Sponsored by Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/

Host: Phil Street FIH

Guests: Jo Smith FIH (Institute of Hospitality), Vandana Dass MIH (Managing Director, Davenport Solicitors & IOH Trustee), Lizzie Grundy AIH (Weddings & Private Dining Manager, Pennyhill Park)

Artwork and Branding: Sonia Cresswell (MIH)

Music by: Leon Williams (FIH)

How to Manage an Employment Tribunal

In this episode of the Institute of Hospitality Podcast, Phil navigates the intricate and often misunderstood world of employment tribunals. Joined by Jo Smith FIH, Vandana Dass MIH, and Lizzie Grundy AIH, the discussion explores what tribunals really are, the misconceptions surrounding them, and how to prevent issues before they escalate. Whether you’re new to the workplace or a seasoned leader, this episode offers practical advice and real-world insight on managing workplace conflict with fairness and professionalism.

In this episode, we discuss:

⦁ What Is a Tribunal Anyway?

⦁ A clear explanation from legal expert Vandana Dass on how and why tribunals happen.

⦁ The Human Side of Conflict - How tensions in the workplace affect individuals and teams, with insight from Lizzie and Jo.

⦁ Misconceptions Around Tribunals - From both employer and employee perspectives — including some myths

⦁ Documentation Matters: Why consistent record keeping is key, and what employers often get wrong.

⦁ Culture, Communication, and Leadership: How proactive leadership and early conversations can help prevent escalation.

Why Our Guests Said “I’m In!”

Jo Smith: As a long-time team member at the IOH, Jo celebrates the supportive and forward-thinking community that makes the IOH special. She loves being part of a network where people matter above all else.

Vandana Dass: A passionate advocate for hospitality, Vandana joined the IOH because of its commitment to supporting professionals and creating a powerful, empathetic community of practice.

Lizzie Grundy: A member since her student days, Lizzie credits the IOH with offering the network, mentorship, and opportunity that helped her progress quickly in her career. It’s all about the people.

Key Moments and Quotes from the Episode:

“Employment tribunals are legal forums set up to resolve disputes between employers and employees — often a last resort when informal resolution fails.” – Vandana Dass

“Trust and confidence are central to any employment relationship. Once that’s gone, it’s very hard to get it back.” – Vandana Dass

"We should just gossip less, people" - Phil Street

"You have to balance protecting the company with genuinely caring about the people. That’s where true leadership lies."

“As leaders, we must be alert to shifts in behaviour. An employee acting differently can be a huge red flag.” – Vandana Dass

“Conflict is inevitable. What matters is how we deal with it, not whether we can avoid it.” – Lizzie Grundy

“Documentation is your best friend. If it’s not written down, it’s one person’s word against another.” – Vandana Dass

“A healthy workplace is one where people thrive and feel psychologically safe.” – Vandana Dass & Lizzie Grundy

Join the Conversation:

Twitter/X: @IoH_Online

Instagram: @ioh_online

LinkedIn: Institute of Hospitality

Website: https://www.instituteofhospitality.org

Tune in now for a compelling and accessible look into how tribunals work, how to avoid them, and how to foster a fairer, more communicative workplace.

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