Where do you currently work and what is your role?
I currently work at Courtyard by Marriott Amsterdam Arena Atlas as Operations Manager. I coordinate the hotel’s main operational areas — from Front Office to the restaurant, from kitchen to housekeeping — ensuring everything runs smoothly and that every guest enjoys a pleasant, high-quality experience. I closely oversee team management, performance analysis and the development of strategies to improve efficiency, revenue and guest satisfaction.
In what way did the Master support your career?
The Master provided me with a strong theoretical and practical foundation in hospitality, helping me better understand the managerial and strategic dynamics of a hotel. It was also an excellent stepping stone to build a professional network and develop key transversal skills such as leadership, intercultural communication and problem solving — essential to grow professionally and take on leadership roles like the one I hold today.
What advice would you give to a young person who wants to become a hospitality professional?
My advice is to stay curious and flexible, and not be afraid to start from the ground up: every role, even the most operational one, teaches something valuable. Hospitality requires passion, empathy and adaptability. Investing in personal development, travelling, embracing different cultures and learning how to work effectively in a team are factors that truly make a difference in this industry.
