Andrea Strim, GM of Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, approaches hospitality with a focus on people, operational efficiency and strategic growth. He discusses his approach to motivating teams, fostering innovation and navigating the evolving challenges of today’s hospitality landscape.
What does cultivating excellence in hospitality mean to you in the context of your hotel’s day-to-day operations?
Excellence is a fundamental pillar of our daily operations and for us, it means creating magical moments through meaningful connections. Furthermore, our hotel is committed to cultivating a guest-centric culture, where associates are empowered to lead. Moreover, we believe that cultivating excellence also means creating experiences reflecting the spirit of discovery and leaving lasting impressions. We abide by our founder’s philosophy, “Take care of your associates, and they will take care of your customers.” Consequently, our anticipatory service flows naturally and excellence is firmly woven into every aspect of our operations and experiences.
What role do you believe hotels should play in setting standards for employee well-being and career growth?
The ‘People First’ philosophy guides everything we do and we believe hotels should lead in service and associate experience excellence. Furthermore, we believe hotels should create workplaces where associates thrive, feel recognized and enjoy opportunities for career growth and development. Our responsibility extends beyond providing jobs, focusing instead on building lasting careers while fostering a true sense of belonging for associates. Moreover, we invest continuously in training, mentorship and clear pathways for development. At the Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai, we bring this philosophy to life through wellness programs, mindfulness sessions and engagement activities. In addition, when associates feel valued, engaged and see future growth with us, they deliver exceptional experiences consistently to every guest. Exceeding expectations is essential in hospitality as it allows hotels to stand out. This virtuous cycle strengthens retention, elevates service standards and reinforces Marriott’s global stellar reputation.
Hospitality is often seen as demanding; how can the industry make itself more attractive to new talent?
Hospitality is indeed demanding, yet it remains equally rewarding, offering unmatched global opportunities, cultural experiences and personal growth for individuals. Moreover, we focus on recognition, innovation and inclusion, ensuring every associate feels valued, proud and integral to our team.
At Marriott International, we are advancing the ‘Khebra Project’ to attract Emirati talent specifically to the hospitality sector and industry. Moreover, this 24-month apprentice program, run with the Dubai College of Tourism, rotates participants through multiple departments to develop future Emirati leaders.
We can challenge processes and adapt rapidly, yet we must always remember hospitality is a career where passion for people meets possibilities. Thus, by emphasizing meaningful experiences, structured development opportunities and genuine belonging, we can inspire the next generation to build lasting careers.
What message would you share with young professionals considering a career in hospitality today?
If you’re passionate about people, hospitality offers a career full of purpose, growth and global opportunity. Moreover, every day brings new challenges, every guest interaction is meaningful and every role provides a chance to learn and develop. Till this day, hospitality remains a never-ending puzzle that I am passionately engaged in solving. Furthermore, it continues to challenge, inspire and excite me. I have always lived by the philosophy of ‘Choose Now, Choose Well.’ This mindset encourages continuous learning, forward momentum and building a career that can take you anywhere in the world. Start with curiosity, stay committed and remember that taking care of others begins with taking care of yourself and your team.
