Get to know Raimund Notz
Raimund Notz is one of the members of the new HSMAI Europe DACH Advisory Board.
The advisory board members will be assisting HSMAI Europe with developing different initiatives that gives great value for their members in the region as it continues the transitions (from individual chapters) into a European driven, sustainable organization focusing on developing cross-border insight for the hospitality industry in Europe as a whole. They will also help HSMAI Europe grow their membership in the region.
HSMAI Europe aims to be a key influencer, pioneer and the go-to industry resource for professional development, commercial strategies and sustainability in the hospitality, travel and tourism industry.
Q. What does your working day consist of?
My working day usually starts around 8 am. No day is like the day before, while supporting 50 hotels throughout 15 countries. But each day kicks off with getting kids ready for school and walking our dog (Linus). The morning is mainly blocked for answering emails, calls and jumping on teams conferences. But luckily more and more travels are in my diary to meet our hotels in person and provide them with strategic revenue management & distribution support.
Q. What is the best thing about your job?
Diversity, flexibility, you get the ability to work with so many people globally – simply it’s all about hospitality & passion.
Q. Do you have any nice traditions in the office?
While we have the pleasure to travel quite often, there are only 4 men in our office, so we don’t meet that often, but from time to time we spend lunch time together.
Q. Are there any new skills you have developed or that you want to develop in the future?
Oh, yes I considered a lot over the last years – but trying to learn Spanish or Italian would be amazing. Apart from languages, I try to run and keep fit, which is not easy at all. I wish to participate in a marathon once. I like many activities like SUP or paragliding (tandem) which I did last year. I’m also a good craftsman and do almost everything myself at home in our house and backyard.
Q. The entire industry faces the challenge of attracting and retaining talent. Do you have any thoughts on this that you would like to share with us? Mostly it starts with leadership, trust and guidance, but requires good communication – benefits and salary are important to the employees of course, but empathy and fun as well.
Q. How would someone who knows you describe you?
I think the most relevant keywords would be – task-focused, independent, analytical and critical (maybe typical German), creative, direct, proactive and eager for results as I work best in fast-paced environments. But also a caring and loving husband, father and dog-father.
Q. How long have you been a member of HSMAI?
I have been a HSMAI member since I joined Preferred Hotels & Resorts over six years ago.
Q. What do you think is the best thing about HSMAI and what would you like to say to potential new members?
Resilience and out of the box thinking is a major commitment to me and I strongly believe and foster the integrated sales, marketing and revenue approach. Therefore HSMAI provides the perfect platform to get direct access to a network of key influencers and industry professionals for development and commercial strategies – simply the go-to industry resource.
Q. Where does the next trip go, privately or at work?
I’m so excited that there are a few great destinations on my travel schedule already which brings me to the Netherlands, Turkey, Switzerland but also London and Berlin. The travel heat is on and we believe in travel.
Q. If you were trapped on a desert island, what would you take with you, if you could choose one thing?
Oh gosh, at least I would need three items – phone, charger and bottle of water
Q. Is there a book or podcast that recently inspired you and that you would recommend?
I like criminal stories, especially when they take place on the Baltic Sea or the North Sea. That being said, I like the author Eva Almstaedt.
Q: Is there anything else you want to share with us?
My memorable travel experience dates back to 1994/95 when I went to Beijing– my father was assigned to a project there and we had the opportunity to travel and stay twice! Amazing city and people – By the way, this is the reason why I decided to be in our industry. The hotel we stayed in at the time was so impressive and the staff so passionate!
