Tell us about your journey in hospitality so far – what drew you to the industry and keeps you passionate about it today?

I ended up in the industry by pure chance.
I was fresh out of university, studying entrepreneurship and was eager to launch my very own business. However, after a long and relentless period of trying to establish a sustainable revenue stream, I saw the need for having something stable on the side. Luckily I knew the general manager at a local hotel, and I was offered the position of Meeting & Event Manager. The real story is about why I stayed.

The travel industry is complex and nuanced, but at the same time incredibly simple. Actions get quick reactions, breathing fresh air into the lungs of a young entrepreneur who was always hungry for market insight. I still remember how rewarding it felt, working in an industry where the guests were always in the centre, where people understood the importance of user inclusion to create good experiences. I loved how quickly we got feedback on all the changes we implemented. For me, the travel industry is perfectly placed at the cross-section of all my interests – where I can still use my entrepreneurial mindset, as well as working closely with our guests, in a colorful, complex, yet simple industry.

What motivated you to join the Connecting Future Leaders Committee, and how has working alongside peers from other companies helped you expand your network and develop new perspectives?

If you’re invested in your industry, you always look for new knowledge and insights. Connecting Future Leaders piqued my interest because it enabled me to influence which topics we deep dived into. The travel industry is incredibly broad, and there are so many talented people in other parts of the industry that we can learn a lot from. i.e., having cruise line professionals discuss hotel operations with hotel professionals, airlines discuss market penetration with tour operators and so forth. The long-term takeaway, no matter the topic, is still a network of like-minded professionals – all hungry for new knowledge, growing professionally and expanding their horizons.

Connecting Future Leaders (CFL) events are an important part of HSMAI Europe; what’s been your most memorable takeaway or moment from one of these events?

A while back, we organized a brainstorming session as part of one of our events. The idea was to get the attendees’ thoughts and ideas for interesting topics that we could make events out of in the future. The takeaway from the brainstorming was great, but the greatest value was found in the discussions that followed – when attendees were allowed to express what they were interested in. It took me back to my core reasoning for why I joined the Connecting Future Leaders committee, wanting to influence which topics we addressed. It also underlined the relevance and need for such a committee, as it goes to show that young professionals need arenas to share thoughts and ideas.

What excites you most about the future of hospitality, and how do you see yourself contributing to that future?

I love how our industry is adapting to new and modern solutions. We’re standing at the brink of a new dawn, where new technology will radically change how we operate. Embracing it as a tool rather than a replacement is fundamental if we want to cater to future needs. I’m triggered by the rapid change, as it forces me to put on my entrepreneurial hat and continue listening to market feedback.

For young hotel and travel professionals who might be thinking, “Is this for me?” – what would you say to encourage them to get involved?

I think it’s highly important to continue to grow professionally, no matter the industry you are in. “Growing” does not necessarily mean chasing promotions. For some, yes, but for the majority of us, it’s about staying relevant and agile for what is to come. Connecting Future Leaders gives you market insight, new knowledge and new connections – all of which will help build resilience and agility in your career.

Quick-fire round (one-line answers only):

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received at HSMAI Europe events?

Be curious.

What’s one skill every young leader should develop?

To stop and listen.

Name a hospitality trend that excites you right now.

AI assistants as the replacement of OTAs.

How would you describe the greatest benefit of HSMAI Europe in just one line?

Bringing industry professionals together.