Mark Lockard
General Manager at Marea
“It’s not about the mistakes you have made, it’s about how you recover from them. Mistakes are always going to happen, no one is perfect. It’s about how you turn the situation around. People are going to be more forgiving when you acknowledge the problem and do something about it versus turning a blind eye. Learning from mistakes that you or others have made only helps you to grow.„
EXPERIENCE
EDUCATION
Hospitality is about making people feel happy, whether that’s guests or colleagues. They want to feel well taken care of. If you do not enjoy making people happy, this industry is not for you.
When hiring, I look for a team player who strives for a win-win where the team and individual succeed together. This person demonstrates respect, the ability to collaborate, solution focused and a willingness to communicate constructively, help and be flexible.
Commitment to excellence is a key skill. Someone who takes pride in what they do, strives to continuously improve and always deliver the highest quality, demonstrates integrity, and a desire to win.
To avoid burnout, I go on long walks through Central Park with my Shiba Inus. This helps clear my mind and keeps me focused on nature, which is very soothing. Exposure to nature not only makes me feel better emotionally, but it also contributes to my physical well-being and reduces stress.
Leading by example help me keep my team inspired and motivated. When on the dining room floor, I step in wherever I can, whether that’s greeting a table, taking an order, running drinks or food, or clearing a table. This all helps build trust and respect from my team.
Disclaimer: Individuals featured in the Inspirational Career Timelines section have been nominated by peers, colleagues and/or other members of the hospitality industry. It is to the best of our knowledge that each individual has demonstrated leadership and acted as a positive role model for others.
Send Us Your Nominations
If you know of any extraordinary food, beverage and hospitality professionals who inspire others through their hard work and leadership, nominate them now!
Nominate
Search industry jobs here
Get Inspired by Industry Leaders
Explore their unique career timelines and advice about what they’ve learned along the way
- Categories
- CulinaryPastry & BakingWine & BeverageServiceOffice & AdminMedia
- Experience
- Career ChangerInternational ExperienceJames Beard Award
CountryLanguage
