F&B MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Ksenia Novikova, former F&B venues manager, St. Regis Doha
What company/hotel are you currently with?
I’m with the Ritz-Carlton in Beijing.
What’s your job role now?
My business card says director of restaurants, but I still serve the coffee. I mean this in a good way, as I will always have a passion for customer service.
How has winning a Hotelier Award impacted your career?
It definitely made me feel good about the work I did at the St. Regis in Doha. Athletes say you have to prove yourself all over again once you step down from the pedestal. After five years in the US and three years in Doha, that’s exactly what I’m doing in my new role at the Ritz-Carlton.
What is the best piece of advice you can give other hoteliers who want to win a Hotelier Award?
Someone once told me, “Work hard, be thoughtful and great things will happen.” It’s wonderful advice and I encourage others to follow it like I still do every day.
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Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
No one can predict the future. Life can take so many different twists and turns. I’m just going to continue seizing the moment and taking advantage of opportunities that come my way.
What are you doing to achieve your goals and dreams?
I’m a lists sort of person. Crossing tasks off a list just makes me feel like I’ve accomplished something. And when one list ends, another begins. It’s a great way to stay driven.
What’s your dream position?
Positions mean nothing if they are not backed up by knowledge, respect and a supportive team. I strive to excel at whatever I do. I believe that if I work hard, the positions and promotions will come at the right time.
Who is the one person that inspires you most?
I’ve moved around a lot in my career. Because of this, I’ve had the opportunity to meet many amazing people who inspire me – from college professors to bosses, hotel guests, colleagues and mentors. I will never be able to thank these people enough for everything they have done for me. I try to make sure they know how important they are in my life and career.
What is your life ambition outside of work?
I’m passionate about traveling. I have two more world wonders to see and there is still a globe full of countries left for me to visit. I’d also love to write a book about the hilarious things I’ve witnessed working in restaurants. Trust me, the book will be a bestseller because I’ve seen some pretty crazy things, so stay tuned!
Nominations for the Hotelier Middle East Awards 2015 are still open, with a deadline of August 31, 2015. All of the information you need on how to nominate a colleague is available here: www.hoteliermiddleeast.com/awards.
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