Navigating a Successful Hospitality Career: Insights from Mariana Marques
Discover the keys to success in the hospitality industry through the inspiring journey of Mariana Marques, a leader in operations and advocate for women in the workplace.
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Foundations of Leadership in London
Mariana Marques' foray into the hospitality industry began in the vibrant city of London, where she honed her skills in diverse roles across hotels and restaurants. The dynamic nature of London's food and beverage scene, catering to a mix of locals and tourists, instilled in Marques the value of adaptability and self-discovery. From serving as a barista at the National Theatre to managing guest services at Marriott, Marques understood the pivotal role of effective leadership in driving success within a business.
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Impactful Experiences in Brazil
Transitioning to Brazil, Marques delved into the realm of cosmetics at Avon, where she managed a team of women and witnessed firsthand the strength and resilience of individuals striving for better lives. Engaging with women in challenging circumstances, such as a single mother surpassing sales targets in the face of adversity, highlighted the transformative power of empowerment and mentorship. These experiences fueled Marques' commitment to creating opportunities for women's success and advocating for inclusivity in the workplace.
Balancing Relocation and Career Advancement
Navigating multiple relocations, including a significant move to Canada with her family, Mariana Marques learned the importance of building a support network to overcome challenges. Transparent communication, both personally and professionally, played a vital role in managing transitions and fostering resilience. Each relocation brought Marques' family closer and facilitated career growth, culminating in enriching opportunities at Restaurant Brands International.
Pride in Operational Excellence
Reflecting on her achievements at Tim Hortons and Firehouse Subs, Marques takes pride in driving operational excellence and fostering innovation across key departments. By collaborating with diverse teams and franchisees, she has significantly improved business performance and guest satisfaction. Marques' role underscores the importance of strategic leadership and cross-functional cooperation in achieving operational success.
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Empowering Women and Advocating for Inclusivity
Engagement in the Women of Firehouse movement echoes Marques' dedication to empowering women and fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Through mentorship, advocacy for work-life balance, and providing platforms for women's voices, Marques continues to catalyze empowerment initiatives. Her work resonates with the impactful experiences she encountered in Brazil, emphasizing the transformative power of support and belief in women's capabilities.
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Lessons in Resilience and Growth
Marques' journey as an immigrant, mother, and career woman navigating various countries underscores the importance of embracing challenges as avenues for personal and professional development. Adapting to new cultures and environments, she learned to transform difficulties into opportunities for growth and success. Marques' resilience and adaptability have been instrumental in her progression to senior leadership roles, demonstrating the value of perseverance and determination.
Guiding Principles for Success in the Hospitality Industry
Drawing from her experiences, Mariana Marques imparts valuable advice for aspiring professionals in the hospitality industry. Embracing change, seeking growth opportunities, and fostering a robust support network are foundational elements for career advancement. Prioritizing well-being, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and believing in one's abilities are key pillars for success in a demanding yet rewarding industry.
