Marriott International has introduced a business-focused initiative for young professionals across its hotel portfolio aimed at promoting career development and better outcomes for the hospitality industry.
The Next Gen Marriott Business Council in New South Wales, which launched on Tuesday, is a collaborative platform that unites millennials and Gen Z employees to exchange ideas and discuss the industry’s challenges and opportunities.
“Our vision across the NSW next gen Business Council is to empower and uplift our next generation of leaders,” said Committee Member and Pier One Sydney Harbour EAM Food and Beverage, Joshua Dows.
“This program aspires to shape the future of our industry and how we do business, encouraging innovation, and drive positive change in the broader hotel landscape.”
The council is built on four pillars: ‘Futurize’ (innovation), ‘Purpose’ (sustainability and social impact), ‘Awaken’ (community and inclusive culture) and ‘Evolve’ (career development).
The council’s “think differently” strategy will include market-wide competitions and engagement exercises and podcasts in collaboration with tech innovators.
Purpose-driven initiatives and projects aimed at generating positive social impact will include collaborative community service efforts and partnerships with local organisations to address social and environmental issues, alongside efforts to promote sustainable and ethical practices within the industry.
The council aims to empower millennial professionals by fostering connections and promoting seamless collaboration among forward-looking individuals from diverse industries and backgrounds. This will be facilitated through an online platform that enables continuous communication and resource sharing, as well as social and networking events.
Leadership and career development will include monthly forums with industry experts, workshops on essential skills, training sessions on digital tools, and mentorship programs that connect experienced leaders with younger members.
Committee members include Joshua Dows, EAM – Food and Beverage, Pier One Sydney Harbour; Sophie Meng, Director of Sales, W Sydney; Michelle Street, Reservations Manager, W Sydney; Ryan Ng, Welcome Supervisor, W Sydney; Alexander Flanders, Restaurant Manager, Pier One Sydney Harbour; Jasmine Bahuguna, Human Resource Executive – L&D, Sheraton Grand Sydney; Anuradha Naudiyal, EA, Sheraton Grand Sydney; Candace Sharpe, Wedding and Social Event Sales Manager, Pier One Sydney Harbour; Dimaz Kusumaputr, Assistant Manager, Front Office, Moxy Sydney; and Andrea Palmieri, Jnr Sous Chef, Four Points By Sheraton Sydney.