Chief Marketing Officer at Boka Restaurant Group

At the Four Seasons, I was an assistant for about 4 years before I was promoted to a manager position. At the time, I thought I knew everything and was frustrated that my career was not progressing more quickly. Looking back, I realize that this was the absolute best training I could have had. My director taught me everything, including how to manage like she managed. By the time I was promoted, I was the most highly-skilled assistant within my team and was able to transition seamlessly to a management role.

I couldn't do it this job without my family. I have two small daughters and I'm incredibly proud to be a working mom. I hope that I can inspire them to work hard for their dreams and show them that as a woman, it is absolutely possible to maintain both a personal and a professional life.

“Know your enemies” – my first director was a big fan of Sun Tzu’s 'The Art of War’. I truly took this to heart by doing my best to know and understand those around me, be them friend or foe. Although in hospitality, “enemy” is not quite the right word, it is always important to know and understand things from all sides.

I continue to network and learn from those around me. When different workshops are offered, even if they are not directly aligned to my position, I still try to attend. The more you know about your industry, even if it is not directly applicable to your day to day, it will still help you to be a more well-rounded and informed manager.