Talent Management and The Sustainability of Family-Owned Tourism Businesses in Mahe Island, Seychelles

This study examines the relationship between talent management and the sustainability of family-owned tourism businesses on Mahe Island, Seychelles. Using a pragmatic methodology that integrates frameworks and empirical analyses, the research employs a quantitative approach to analyze variables related to talent acquisition, development, and retention alongside sustainability indicators for family-owned tourism enterprises. The target population comprised 405 owners/CEOs/managers of tourism companies, categorized into star-rated hotels and resorts, self-catering facilities, and guesthouse accommodations. A sample size of 253 respondents was determined using Yamane's model at a 95% confidence level. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using regression models. The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between talent management practices and business sustainability, with 74% of the sustainability variance attributed to talent management. Key challenges include attracting skilled employees, inadequate succession planning, and limited training access. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of talent management approaches in balancing tradition with innovation and enhancing operational resilience, employee engagement, and community involvement. Leadership development and performance management alignment have emerged as critical factors for sustainability and growth. The study recommends adopting comprehensive talent management frameworks to safeguard the continuity of family-owned tourism businesses in dynamic markets, contributing to the broader economic and social sustainability of the island tourism industry.