Samantha Hamilton , Brand Development Manager with Dakota Hotels
26 QMYOU / Graduate interview
Samantha Hamilton , Brand Development Manager with Dakota Hotels
What did you study at QMU and when ?
I started with the BA ( Hons ) Tourism Management in 2007 – 2010 then went on to study the MBA Hospitality on a part-time basis between 2013 and 2015 .
What does your role involve ?
Our brand is our team , so my primary focus is people by way of groupwide recruitment , on-going development , and the way we deliver guest service .
How have you progressed within the industry ?
I began on reception at a Holiday Inn whilst studying , and later joined the Old Course Hotel in guest relations upon graduating , before initially joining Dakota in the role of training executive .
How have your courses at QMU helped you in your role with Dakota ?
In particular , I feel returning to study my MBA whilst working in industry really heightened all of my theoretical learning . I also benefit greatly from being given the autonomy to challenge the way we do things and explore ways to improve our operation .
How have you remained involved with QMU ?
Dakota Hotels provides internships and financial support to QMU ' s hospitality and tourism degree students . I speak with the undergraduate hospitality students on an annual basis to offer internships at Dakota during their industry placement . We also currently have two QMU graduates on our Graduate Development Program , and three members of our team studying Hospitality at QMU , which helps to strengthen the relationship Dakota has with QMU .
What do you love about your job ?
I love being part of a team which shares similar values ; we are all here to be a part of something special . I genuinely enjoy myself each day and I feel I work with friends , which in turn provides an invaluable support system .
What are some of your biggest challenges ?
After being introduced to our Chairman , Ken McCulloch , there was a learning curve of how to effectively deal with his unique larger-thanlife character and interpret this into effective business management . Particularly , when I first attained a managerial position , my ability to prioritise was also something I struggled with .
What do you consider to be your most important achievements ?
I have spent the last two years of my career being especially focused on recruitment and talent development . During this time , there have been many individuals for whom I feel a great sense of pride for having played a role in their success story within the company .
What have been some of your funniest or most memorable moments working in the hospitality and tourism industry ?
My first role in tourism was during a summer internship with Walt Disney World in Florida , which was arranged as part of my undergraduate course at QMU . Those three to four months were the best of my life ; a lot of work , but exceptionally fruitful .
Do you feel the industry offers opportunity for graduates ?
I grew up knowing my career would be in hotels . So , to be in senior management for a brand with such personality - so aligned with who I am , and with great plans for future growth - highlights the fact that there are so many opportunities for graduates within our industry , as long as they find an organisation which is the right fit for them , are driven , and radiate enthusiasm for what we do . ❒
26 QMYOU / Graduate interview