Human Resources Manager, Novotel Northbeach, Wollongong
What is your current role?
Human resources manager, Novotel Northbeach, Wollongong.
What qualifications do you hold?
Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management, Bachelor of Arts majors in Psychology and Sociology and Certificate IV Workplace Training and Assessment.
Why did you get into HR?
I have always had a passion for helping others, leading change and training. I enjoyed the organisational behaviour subjects at university and I admired the role the HR department had within my workplace.
How did you get into HR?
I completed a Graduate Management Traineeship with Southern Pacific Hotel Corporation. With a strong understanding of hotel operations and my HR studies, I was successful in gaining a HR co-ordinator’s role at Novotel, Brighton Beach. The Accor Hotel group has since then given 14 fantastic years with plenty of opportunity and variety.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I have three young sons under six years of age. In five years’ time I look forward to having the flexibility to consult and specialise in the areas of cultural change and management performance.
What has been your biggest career high so far?
In 1995 and 1996 I was appointed national training manager for Accor Asia Pacific, Australia and New Zealand. The company was growing at a rapid pace. The role involved lots of training and travel to our many hotels throughout these regions. It was fun and exciting for someone young and single.
What do you think it takes to succeed in HR?
A genuine passion to make a difference. I get enormous satisfaction from making a difference to our business but also to individual people as well. A strong understanding of your business is essential to ensure that the HR function and strategy of the organisation are aligned.
How do you manage relationships with senior executives?
No differently to anyone else. Everyone likes to be made to feel important, listened to and respected. I am a very open and honest person. I say it how I see it but so as not to disrespect or undermine another person.
Who is your biggest professional inspiration?
Rosie Hollis, vice president – strategy, Accor Asia Pacific. For her ability to lead and drive change, relate to people on all levels, juggle a great career and family and still manage to have time to laugh over a glass of red.
What advice would you give to graduates considering a career in HR?
Never underestimate the importance on knowing your business and industry inside out. Choose the industry you have a passion for (hospitality is mine). Any opportunity to experience and learn within that industry will provide you with enormous knowledge and advantage for making a difference.
Describe yourself in three words
Positive, innovative and busy.
