Today’s young professionals are redefining what it means to build a career in the hotel industry. They are armed with digital savvy, a global mindset and a hunger for hands-on experience — they are blending traditional hospitality skills with modern strategies. Here are what a few of Hotel Management’s most recent class of Thirty Under 30 award winners are doing to prepare for their next roles, sponsored by DIRECTV HOSPITALITY.
Olivia Barbeau, talent acquisition manager at Brittain Resorts & Hotels
I’m continuously working to deepen my understanding of both the hospitality industry and the broader field of human resources. To grow in my career, I believe it’s important to understand not just talent acquisition, but how all parts of the business work together. I’m fortunate to have strong relationships with leaders across the company and I actively seek their insight as I continue to learn and grow. One of my current goals is earning my SHRM-CP [Society for Human Resource Management-Certified Professional] certification, which I see as an important step in expanding my HR knowledge and preparing for future opportunities. I attend sessions offered by our local SHRM chapter as well. I’m also working on improving my Spanish language skills to better connect with candidates and associates across language barriers. Strengthening this skill will help me communicate more effectively with our diverse workforce, which I see as both a personal and professional asset.
Emma Dietz, former senior associate of investments at First Hospitality, now senior manager of transactions at Hyatt
To continue developing my career and prepare for future roles, I’ve been intentional about seeking out opportunities that expand both my network and skill set. Over the past year, I’ve attended key industry conferences such as ALIS and the NYU Hospitality Investment Conference. These events have allowed me to connect with peers, strengthen relationships with partners, and build new connections that support both my personal and professional growth. Additionally, I’m participating in the American Hotel & Lodging Association BUILD & ELEVATE program, which has been a valuable experience for sharpening my leadership skills and broadening my perspective on career development within the hospitality industry. These efforts are helping me stay engaged, informed, and prepared for the next step in my career journey.
Amaan Dosani, CEO and co-founder at Hifive & Sabha Hospitality
To prepare for my next roles, I’m focused on developing my leadership and operational skills while giving back to the hospitality community. Managing both a growing tech company and a family hotel sharpens my ability to lead and scale, but I also feel a responsibility to support others entering the industry. I’ve been fortunate to be mentored by some of the biggest leaders in hospitality—people who welcomed me warmly and dedicated hours of their time, from long meetings to dinners at their homes, without expecting anything in return. Inspired by their generosity, I want to pay it forward by helping those who choose to be in this industry. Many focus on the guest experience, but I believe it’s equally important to offer that same care and support to the people behind the desk, empowering them to thrive. In addition to mentorship, I invest in ongoing learning, attend industry events and cultivate strong company cultures centered on communication and feedback. By working cross-functionally—from product to client relations—I’m broadening my skills and preparing for larger leadership roles. I want to lead with empathy and purpose, helping others build fulfilling careers in hospitality while driving meaningful innovation.
Sean Marsden, general manager at the Aloft Denver International Airport for Stonebridge
Right now, I’m focused on sharpening my financial acumen. Specifically, around forecasting and managing both the top and bottom line. I want to be as strong on the business side as I am on the operations and leadership side. My immediate goal is to position my current hotel for sustained success so I can promote from within and step into my next challenge. I’m setting my sights on a full-service property. I know that making that leap will push me beyond the familiar pace of select-service and force me to grow in new, dynamic ways. There's no growth in the comfort zone and no comfort in the growth zone.
This article was originally published in the Febuary/March edition of Hotel Management magazine. Subscribe here.