HR Director

Since working in hospitality in high school, Samin has had a profound appreciation for workers in the service industry and is happy to support them through her role at Empowered. Samin began her human resources career as a college intern with a Swedish construction company, where an initial three-month internship turned into a two-year HR journey that inspired her to focus her career there. Later earning a master’s in human resource management from Rutgers, she then began a people operations role at Unilever, finding her passion in HR technology, operations, and employee experience. While working in corporate environment was a tremendous learning experience, Samin's compulsion to rejoin the hospitality industry was strong (and fortunate). Samin’s strengths lie not only in HR generalist expertise, but also in HR technology, process improvement and making HR operations simple, automated, and efficient.

Ideal Restaurant Experience

My ideal restaurant experience is a place where the lights are dimmed, the noise level is low with a bit of light background music, and the atmosphere is warm and cozy; almost as if the restaurant wants to romance you while you dine. The more intimate the experience, the more I can focus my attention on my meal and my company.

What does creating workplaces where people thrive mean to you?

Creating a workplace where people can thrive means building a place of trust, support and safety. We spend majority of our time at work, and I believe it should be a place where you can be your authentic self. Where you can rely on your team and where you feel safe, physically, and psychologically. A place where you feel safe and supported to be your true self is the best place for you to be challenged, expressive and successful.

Gabriel's upbringing in the Bronx fostered his deep appreciation for home cooking, as he discovered a love for the incredible creations crafted by his mom and grandmother in the comfort of their own kitchen. Embarking on his hospitality journey at the young age of sixteen, Gabriel started out as a short order cook, returning to the industry after earning his bachelor's in chemistry. Gabriel's passion for food led him to work in quick service restaurants, rising quickly through the ranks to general manager and director of operations roles. Leveraging his background in operations, Gabriel later found an opportunity to apply his expertise to HR strategies, focusing on recruitment, compliance, and employee satisfaction. As a SHRM Certified Professional with an unwavering commitment to employee well-being, Gabriel finds inspiration in the intersection of his profession with his other passions, including interior design, real estate, and music.

Ideal Restaurant Experience

Coming from a background in quick service restaurants, my attention has typically been centered on the presentation and taste of the food itself rather than a restaurant's atmosphere and ambiance. However, I have come to appreciate that some of my favorite spots are truly breathtaking - captivating you with their ambiance. On the other hand, I have also discovered hidden gems that may appear basic in appearance but surprise you with their remarkable flavors. For me, the ideal experience lies in the emphasis placed on the food itself and the genuine passion that comes through in every bite.

What does creating workplaces where people thrive mean to you?

Creating a workplace where people thrive, to me, means fostering an environment that promotes the growth, well-being, and overall success of every individual within the organization. It entails cultivating a culture of respect, inclusivity, and support, where employees feel valued, empowered, and inspired to reach their full potential.