Navigating Success in the Hospitality Industry: A Journey of Leadership and Resilience
Explore Mariana Marques' inspiring journey in the hospitality industry, highlighting leadership, mentorship, and work-life balance.
Photo by Adam Lowly on Unsplash
Photo by Adam Lowly on Unsplash
Building the Foundation in London
London served as the launching pad for Mariana Marques' successful career in hospitality. The diverse city and its 24/7 food and beverage industry exposed her to a spectrum of roles that shaped her leadership style. From being a barista at the National Theatre to overseeing guest services at Marriott, Mariana learned the pivotal role of adaptability and person-centered leadership. Her experiences underscored the essence of understanding individuality to maximize team potential. These foundational principles are paramount not only at headquarters but also resonate at the grassroots level in establishments like Firehouse Subs.
Impactful Lessons from Brazil
Marques' tenure in Brazil with Avon left a lasting impact on her career trajectory. Managing a team of women in the cosmetics industry, Mariana witnessed firsthand the strength and determination of individuals striving for success in challenging circumstances. Through encounters like the single mother surpassing sales targets, Marques learned the transformative power of empowerment and mentorship. These experiences reinforced her commitment to creating avenues for women's success, emphasizing the profound impact of encouragement and support in professional growth.
Photo by Adam Lowly on Unsplash
Navigating Relocations and Family Balance
Relocating across countries with a family posed significant challenges for Mariana Marques. However, these transitions underscored the importance of forging strong support networks. Transparent communication with family, friends, and colleagues served as pillars in navigating new beginnings while advancing professionally. Marques prioritized her family's well-being, leveraging each relocation to strengthen familial bonds and enhance her career growth. Through perseverance and connectivity, Marques seized opportunities like her rewarding tenure at Restaurant Brands International.
Photo by Adam Lowly on Unsplash
Pride in Career Achievements
Marques' accomplishments at Tim Hortons and Firehouse Subs reflect her commitment to operational excellence and collaborative leadership. At Tim Hortons, she excelled in improving business performance and fostering relationships with franchisees, driving notable results. Transitioning to Firehouse Subs, Mariana spearheads critical departments, driving innovation and efficiency across the board. Her pride in nurturing collaborative initiatives reflects her passion for uniting departments towards a common goal, creating a dynamic and engaging work environment.
Empowering Women in the Workplace
Through her involvement in the Women of Firehouse movement, Mariana Marques champions female empowerment and inclusive workplace cultures. Drawing parallels to her experiences in Brazil, where she witnessed the transformative impact of support and tools for women, Marques now focuses on mentoring emerging female leaders. The movement provides avenues for mentorship, networking, and advocacy, empowering women within the organization to achieve their full potential. Marques believes in the power of belief, echoing the sentiment that women can accomplish anything they set their minds to.
Lessons in Resilience and Growth
Marques' journey as an immigrant, mother, and career woman navigating various countries underscores the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth has been instrumental in her career progression. Each relocation presented new cultural nuances and professional landscapes, shaping Marques' adaptability and fortitude. Her ability to embrace difficulties serves as a cornerstone for her success in senior roles, emphasizing the value of perseverance and openness to change.
Photo by Adam Lowly on Unsplash
Advice for Industry Professionals
Marques' advice to aspiring industry professionals centers on embracing change, seeking growth opportunities, and cultivating strong support systems. Building a network of mentors and allies proves essential in navigating challenges and maximizing career potential. Prioritizing personal well-being and work-life balance lays the groundwork for sustainable success in a demanding industry. Marques underscores the significance of self-belief, resilience, and determination in achieving professional milestones, highlighting the transformative power of perseverance.
