Does Holiday Inn (IHG) Hire Felons?

Yes, Holiday Inn (part of InterContinental Hotels Group, or IHG) hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis.

With over 6,000 hotels worldwide across brands like Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Candlewood Suites, and Crowne Plaza, the company provides accessible employment opportunities in housekeeping, maintenance, and food service.

Entry-level jobs start around $13–$17/hour, and many employees advance into supervisory and management positions over time.

About Holiday Inn (IHG)

Holiday Inn is the flagship brand of IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), which operates more than 6,000 hotels across multiple brands including Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Candlewood Suites, Crowne Plaza, Staybridge Suites, and InterContinental.

The company employs about 375,000 people globally and offers thousands of local hiring opportunities each year.

For job seekers with criminal records, Holiday Inn and IHG properties are known for their property-level hiring and accessible entry-level options:

• Housekeeping is the most accessible department.

• Property-level hiring allows managers discretion in decisions.

• Holiday Inn Express locations are smaller and easier to enter.

• Behind-the-scenes roles have fewer guest interactions.

• 6,000+ hotels provide wide employment coverage across regions.

Holiday Inn / IHG Hiring Policy

IHG evaluates all applicants individually through a case-by-case process, leaving final hiring decisions to each hotel’s local management.

What IHG Considers

• Type and timing of conviction.

• Relevance to the job role.

• Level of guest interaction required.

• Brand type (e.g., Holiday Inn Express vs. Crowne Plaza).

• Time elapsed since conviction and rehabilitation progress.

Available Jobs at Holiday Inn for People with Records

Room Attendant (Housekeeper)

($13–$17/hour)

Cleans guest rooms; most accessible position with steady hiring.

Breakfast Attendant

($13–$16/hour)

Prepares and serves breakfast at Holiday Inn Express (limited-service).

Laundry Attendant

($13–$16/hour)

Operates industrial washers and dryers for linens and towels.

Dishwasher / Steward

($13–$16/hour)

Supports kitchen sanitation and dishwashing duties.

Houseperson

($13–$16/hour)

Assists housekeeping team by restocking and cleaning public areas.

Maintenance Technician

($15–$22/hour)

Performs general building repairs and preventive maintenance.

Night Auditor

($14–$18/hour)

Manages overnight front desk operations and reconciles reports.

Food & Beverage Server

($13–$16/hour + tips; total $18–$25/hour)

Provides restaurant or bar service in full-service hotels.

Housekeeping Supervisor

($35,000–$50,000/year → $17–$24/hour equivalent)

Supervises cleaning staff and coordinates scheduling.

Career Path Example: Room Attendant → Housekeeping Supervisor → Executive Housekeeper.

IHG Benefits: Health insurance, 401(k), employee hotel discounts through IHG Rewards, and travel perks across brands.

Background Check

• 7-year criminal background review.

• Case-by-case consideration at property level.

• Drug testing varies depending on hotel management.

Application Tips

1. Apply to 5–10 IHG properties for better chances.

   
   

2. Target Holiday Inn Express locations for easier entry.

   
   

3. Focus on housekeeping and laundry roles first.

   
   

4. Visit hotels in person and meet the housekeeping manager.

   
   

5. Show reliability and willingness to work weekends.

   
   

6. Apply to Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt too for more options.

   
   

7. Consider extended-stay brands like Candlewood Suites or Staybridge Suites.

   
   

8. Dress neatly and be polite when inquiring in person.

   
   

9. Mention your interest in long-term employment.

   
   

10. Follow up within a few days to show commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Holiday Inn automatically reject applicants with felonies?

No. Holiday Inn and IHG properties make case-by-case hiring decisions.

What is the most accessible position for people with records?

Room Attendant (housekeeping) or Breakfast Attendant roles are typically easiest to obtain.

Is Holiday Inn Express easier to get into than full-service brands?

Yes. Express hotels are smaller, limited-service, and hire more frequently for housekeeping.

How does Holiday Inn compare to Marriott or Hilton?

All have similar accessibility, but IHG operates more midscale and limited-service hotels.

Do I need hotel experience to apply?

No. Most entry-level jobs provide on-site training.

Can I apply while on probation or parole?

Yes, as long as local laws and the property permit it.

Does Holiday Inn drug test applicants?

Testing varies depending on brand and property management.

Can I advance to management positions?

Yes. Many supervisors and managers started in entry-level housekeeping roles.

How many hotels does IHG operate?

Over 6,000 properties globally across multiple well-known brands.

What’s the best way to apply?

Apply online and in person at multiple hotels for higher success.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Marriott – 8,000+ properties; largest global hotel brand.

• Hilton – 7,000+ hotels; similar case-by-case policy.

• Hyatt – 1,000+ hotels; midscale to luxury range.

• Best Western – 4,000+ properties; local franchise discretion.

• Choice Hotels – Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn; accessible brands.

• Wyndham – Includes Days Inn, Ramada, Super 8; entry-level focused.

Final Thoughts

Holiday Inn, part of IHG’s global hotel network, provides accessible employment through a case-by-case review process and local management discretion.

With over 6,000 hotels worldwide, housekeeping ($13–$17/hour) and breakfast attendant roles at Holiday Inn Express are excellent entry points for individuals reentering the workforce.

Advancement opportunities exist for reliable employees seeking stable, long-term hospitality careers.

Key Points:

• Case-by-case evaluation.

• 6,000+ IHG properties worldwide.

• Housekeeping most accessible.

• Holiday Inn Express often easiest entry.

• Apply to multiple hotels across IHG and other chains.

Start here: Visit ihg.com/careers or stop by your local Holiday Inn or Holiday Inn Express to apply in person.