The Planner Guru learns how some of Marriott’s leading ladies have risen through the ranks to establish themselves in top management positions.
As one of the world’s top hotel groups, Marriott is driven by excellence and constantly strives for the highest standards in hotel management and customer service.
The hotelier has a well-established footprint in South Africa and employs some incredible women who, much like Marriott, are consistently seeking ways to learn, improve and grow.
“I have had a couple significant achievements in my career that have shaped who I am as a leader today. My first achievement was being awarded the Protea Hotels Top Graduate of my class in 2010, which is now known as the Accelerate In-Service Programme,” comments Karen Battaliou, hotel manager for Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch and Marriott Executive Apartments Johannesburg, Melrose Arch.
One of Karen’s most profound personal achievements was becoming a general manager within Protea Hotels at the age of 29, having worked for the company for a few years building her portfolio – a remarkable accomplishment for a woman her age.
Amy Elliot, hotel manager for African Pride Melrose Arch, Autograph Collection, is also one of Marriott’s young achievers.
“Being appointed as a GM at the age of 25 – even though it was for a small operation – was a massive accomplishment for me,” she enthuses.
“Being appointed as a GM at the age of 25 – even though it was for a small operation – was a massive accomplishment for me.”
Similarly, Bosele Mogamisi, hotel manager for the Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Johannesburg Melrose Arch, says that her role within the group has been at the top of her career highlights.
“Ascending to my current position – managing one of Protea by Marriott’s flagship properties in the heart of South Africa’s busiest city – has definitely been my most significant achievement,” she says.
Not without its challenges
While the ladies at Marriott are rightly proud of their respective achievements, these have not been without their own challenges; however, like with many situations in life, it is only through adversity that we are truly able to learn and grow.
“Choosing to change my career path from being a general manager, to join the Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch as director of rooms, was seen by a few of my peers as a step down. However, I saw this as an opportunity to work in the first purpose-built Marriott Hotel in South Africa, and gain the necessary experience to advance my career. I focused on my role and showed I had the dedication to manage this effectively. This paid off and, today, I am the hotel manager,” explains Karen.
For Bosele, she is particularly proud of how she was able to steer her operation through the pandemic.
“I think having to reopen a property right after a pandemic with limited resources has to be the greatest challenge that I’ve had to overcome during my career. To date, it’s still a challenge that the team and I are yet to fully overcome; however, my hands-on approach and leading from the front have proved to work wonders,” she says, adding that technology has also been an incredibly useful tool in adapting to a rapidly evolving environment.
“I think having to reopen a property right after a pandemic with limited resources has to be the greatest challenge that I’ve had to overcome during my career.”
Amy, meanwhile, speaks more broadly about the various challenges she has navigated and overcome throughout her career.
“There have been a few challenges that I have had to overcome. Some small, some large. No one incident has defined my career or the way in which it took shape, and I look at every challenge in its context – figuring it out as I go along,” she remarks.
Aspirational advice
It is clear to see why each of these ladies has been appointed to the positions they hold, with each demonstrating clear leadership qualities. They share some of the wisdom they have acquired through their journeys to be where they are.
“Communication is key – always ensure that your mentors and leaders know what your plans are for your career growth and don’t be shy to ask questions, and for help when you need it. Treating everyone around you with respect is important, especially your colleagues and junior team members; you are not above anyone regardless of what your title is,” says Karen.
Bosele believes it is key to be true to oneself.
“Remain authentic and keep improving your knowledge through education. Always seek to understand your craft,” she advises.
Lastly, says Amy, make sure that whatever you decide to do makes you truly happy.
“Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. I promise you that you can, and you have so many people rooting for you!” she concludes.
This article first appeared in the July/August 2022 issue of Meetings, as part of a special feature on Women in MICE. If you’re interested to know more, you can read it online here.
