Vanessa Stevenson

First hospitality job:

Busing table at St Huberts

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Age you started working in hospitality:

15

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Your inspiration to begin working in hospitality:

Being truthful, it was the first job I was able to get on my own without my parents' help. And it did not require experience.

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My hospitality mentor:

Yes. When I started my first hotel job, I worked with an amazing Revenue Manager. At the time I had no idea what a revenue manager was, but that was the point. My job was in housekeeping and yet this leader took the time to get to know me, offer advice, and guide me to a path that may be more up my alley. She was promoted to Rooms Division Manager and ultimately became my boss. She taught me so much that after 10 years I ventured out on my own, leaving the security of the job and people I know.

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What are your favourite aspects of your job?

We are memory makers both for our teams and our guests, it is a blessing to be part of that. Every day is different and unique and always interesting. It is 24/7 so provides great flexibility to balance work and life. And I would be a liar if I didn't say the perks like hotel discounts!!!

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What has inspired you to continue your career path in hospitality?

The fact that I was making a difference in people's lives, both my teams and guests. And as noted, I had the flexibility to raise my kids with a schedule that worked for my family.

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Advice for students interested in a career in hospitality:

Try it out. There are so many paths you can take, it is an industry that is HUGE on promoting from within and the opportunities are everywhere, and you are not bound to one specific geography.