Mercedita Fernandez, director of housekeeping, Ritz-Carlton DIFC tells Hotelier how she has received plenty of recognition and job offers since winning last year’s Housekeeper of the Year Award at the Hotelier Middle East Awards.
Has winning a Hotelier Award impacted your career in any way and if so how?
Winning the Hotelier Award has impacted my life in a big way! I get plenty of recognition at the hotel, which comes with even more trust from my leaders. I’ve also received a lot of recognition from the community, with phone calls and emails of congratulations, even from people I don’t know. I’ve also received various job offers, but have graciously explained that I’m very happy in my current position.
Are you hoping to be nominated this year for an award?
To me, the honour of even being nominated is just as good as actually winning the award, though I think it’s best to give other people a chance at having this experience. It’s a very special honour.
What is the best piece of advice you can give other hoteliers who want to win a Hotelier Award?
I would tell them to build relationships with members of the team. At the end of the day, you can’t be successful if your team isn’t successful. I try to work with my team every day, and I’m certain it’s their commitment that has made me a success. Put your energy and efforts into your team and results will follow.
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Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
In five years, I’d like to be retired and living with my family back home in the Philippines. I love working for The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, but I also look forward to a simple life back home.
What’s your dream position?
I can honestly say that I’m exactly where I’d like to be. My dream is to look back on my career and know that I’ve helped people achieve their goals. If I see members of my team growing within the industry, I’ve achieved my dream.
Who is the one person that inspires you most?
I truly don’t think I would be where I am without Pascale Duchauffour, who recently moved to the USA to be area vice president with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. We met when he was my rooms’ director at The Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai. He immediately saw potential in me and his wisdom and leadership still inspire me to do this job every day, even on the tougher days. I strive to be that kind of leader to members of my team.
Nominate your colleagues for this year’s Hotelier Awards by August 31, 2014. Read our Essential Guide: Hotelier Awards 2014 Nominations and go to www.hoteliermiddleeast.com/awards for more information.
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