Richard Gan

Richard’s journey in Human Resources began with a deep curiosity about how people work, grow, and connect. He started in recruiting operations, helping scale a professional services firm and doubling headcount to over 1,600 employees globally, before expanding into HR and HR operations across financial services and youth mental health. His early experience as a sushi prep cook instilled a lasting appreciation for hospitality’s core values—teamwork, care, and service—which continue to shape his people-first approach. Richard holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University. Now at Empowered Hospitality, Richard applies his HR operations expertise to help hospitality businesses build supportive, people-centered cultures that empower employees to thrive and contribute meaningfully.

What is your ideal restaurant experience?

To me, the best experiences are all about connection, no matter the occasion. It might come from a beautifully balanced dish, an unexpected pairing, the warmth of the staff, or simply the right company for the right moment. Every place has its own story to tell. At the end of the day, when the table is cleared and I’ve left the venue, I’ll linger on my memories and the feelings they left me with.

What does “creating workplaces where people thrive” mean to you?

Thriving at work means being part of a community that matters. It's about building a place of meaningful and impactful work, mutual trust and vulnerability, supported individual growth, and recognition and appreciation for each other's strengths. I am a firm believer in helping others. Our people power our progress.