This study aims to investigate the high staff turnover at a central city motel and to develop a human resource strategy to improve retention. The study uses a qualitative approach in which data was collected through semi-structured interviews and was analysed by themes to obtain results. The thematic analysis of results led to finding causes of high employee turnover at the motel and also helped in recommending strategies to curb the issue. The study found that career advancement and work-life balance were the main factors affecting employee turnover. It also found other factors such as training and motivation lead to high turnover. The study recommends that to retain staff at a central city motel, a strategic human resource plan to develop a career pathway should be adopted. Also, to reduce the struggle between work and personal interests, steps to create a balance should be explored. Research must be conducted on a broader platform to analyse employees from other motels and the hospitality industry to determine their views on high staff turnover.