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Video Introduction
Major: Hospitality and Tourism Management
Job Title: Executive Steward, The Newbury Boston
Company: The Newbury Boston
Company Description: Highgate Hotels
Did you have any initial career goals when you entered Isenberg? Were there any key moments or influences (a guest speaker, course, or extracurricular) during your time at Isenberg that changed or confirmed your career goals?
When I entered Isenberg, I wanted to put myself in the best position to succeed post graduation. My biggest influences were Melissa Baker, Chef Jen, and Will Foley who helped give me the confidence in my abilities that I always had, but just needed to be brought out of me.
Can you share a favorite work assignment that could help a student understand more about what you do?
Chef Jen’s HTM 355 is the most important class to fully understand what it means to work in a full service hospitality establishment. Take that experience to heart. It is incredible experience so early in your young careers.
Now that you’re in this position, what aspects have surprised you that you didn’t anticipate before starting?
I have recently transitioned from a FOH role to BOH, it is very different to not be always dealing with guests, but what has surprised me is how much there is to learn in an F&B operation. As many people want to be in a FOH position, you cannot forget the symbiotic relationship of both. Learning BOH is very important to any career.
What inspires you about the work you are doing in your industry?
What inspires me is the impact I get to have leading a staff. Managing dishwashers may not sound glamorous however I can help grow individuals who want to do more in their careers, and helping them reach their goals is what inspires me.
What are some daily challenges you experience in your role?
I experience challenges with having to learn and work under a labor union which can be challenging to manage at times, as a leader you have to understand what kind of industry you are going into as many hotels are unionized which leads to needing a strong understanding of the contact to manage your team effectively.
Is there anything you wish you had done differently while a student at Isenberg?
I wish I was able to join earlier to establish more of a base in the Isenberg community. Joining second semester Sophomore year did not give me as much time as I wanted to make as much of an impact as I could have.
Networking is extremely important but can be intimidating to undergraduates. What tips do you have for getting started engaging with alum or upperclassmen?
You never know who you are talking to. Many times you will meet someone that can help your career or be a great connection for you in the future. Always have your game face on for whoever you meet.
