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Exploring the Interplay Between Job Satisfaction and Employee Retention in Romania’s Hospitality Sector: A Comprehensive Analysis

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  • Ioana C. Patrichi

    (Department of Commerce, Economic Integration and Business Administration, Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Romanian-American University, 012101 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Tudor M. Edu

    (Management-Marketing Department, Faculty of Management-Marketing, Romanian-American University, 012101 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Camelia M. Gheorghe

    (Department of Commerce, Economic Integration and Business Administration, Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Romanian-American University, 012101 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Stefania C. Antonovici

    (Management-Marketing Department, Faculty of Management-Marketing, Romanian-American University, 012101 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Catrinel R. Dridea

    (Department of Commerce, Economic Integration and Business Administration, Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Romanian-American University, 012101 Bucharest, Romania)

Abstract

This study investigates the complex interplay between internal communication, psychological well-being, and job satisfaction, as well as their influence on employee retention and job performance in Romania’s post-pandemic hospitality sector. In this study, data were collected from 350 employees across hotels, restaurants, and resorts. A Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM) approach was employed for the analysis. Findings suggest that both internal communication and psychological well-being are significant positive predictors of job satisfaction. In turn, job satisfaction is a powerful driver of both employee retention and job performance. A key finding is that job satisfaction fully mediates the relationship between psychological well-being and job performance, with no direct effect observed between the latter two constructs. These results underscore that fostering an employee-centric environment is crucial for achieving social sustainability, directly supporting global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being). Theoretical and practical implications, as well as limitations and future research directions, are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Ioana C. Patrichi & Tudor M. Edu & Camelia M. Gheorghe & Stefania C. Antonovici & Catrinel R. Dridea, 2025. "Exploring the Interplay Between Job Satisfaction and Employee Retention in Romania’s Hospitality Sector: A Comprehensive Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(20), pages 1-19, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:20:p:8971-:d:1767878
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    References listed on IDEAS

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