From Guest to Host

From Guest to Host

My passion for hospitality has deep roots. As a kid, one of the perks of moving around a lot was staying in fantastic hotels. I saw firsthand how hospitality professionals worked together to make our stays memorable and as close to a sense of home as possible. By the time I got to university, I decided to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Hotel and Food Administration at the University of Guelph . It is here that I learned the ins and outs of the industry.?

To bolster my studies, I sought jobs where I could apply the teachings and further my skill set. So, through a recruitment fair, I landed a Food and Beverage Manager role at Canada's Wonderland after my second year. The following summer, I accepted a position as a reservation agent at Delawana Resort in the heart of Ontario’s cottage country. Here, I took every chance to work across roles—from receptionist to hotel porter to front desk—earning the reputation of being the go-to person for last-minute shifts. It was a wonderful experience living and working in the Muskokas.?

After graduation, I began my career as a Prospecting Sales Manager at the Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown . This role opened my eyes to the thrill of selling, and it quickly became my passion. My next stop was in Ottawa, where I supported the launch of a new boutique hotel as a Sales Manager.

Building a reputation as a driven sales professional, I landed a national sales role with Delta Hotels and Resorts? . This position allowed me to explore Canada from Halifax to Vancouver, work with a ton of fantastic people, and learn how to negotiate with Delta’s largest customers.?

My drive eventually took me to the 洲际酒店集团 corporate office, where I became a Key Account Director, building the sales and marketing sports division. I spent nine memorable years travelling across Canada and the U.S., spending 500+ nights on the road. During this time, I met countless people and gained a deep appreciation for working with people from different backgrounds.

Years later, I felt the call to enter a new area of hospitality: short-term rentals. So, I joined Sonder Inc. , a Montreal startup, where I was responsible for growing the company's revenue.?

Then, with nearly two decades of experience, I made the leap into entrepreneurship. It was time to build my legacy in the industry by starting my own company. And with one year into this career path, my passion for hotels and hospitality is stronger than ever.

Natalie Gaudette

Regional Sales & Marketing Director at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG?)

3 个月

Congratulations Brendan! Your journey is truly inspiring. May your business continue to thrive and exceed all expectations.

Emanuel Lee Wu

Commercial Print, Displays and Promotions | Pro-Attention Getter | Are dust bunnies getting more attention than your product ? Hit me up!

3 个月

Leggo Brendan! I know you're going to do well.

Eileen Daly MSW RSW

Eileen Daly MSW RSW

3 个月

Brendan, your passion and drive shines through wherever you place your focus! Not only are you committed to the hotel and hospitality industry, it is easy to see your passion for leadership, creativity and improving the lives/experience of others. Congratulations in this new venture!! ??

Whitney Coccimiglio

Sales. Public Relations, Interpersonal Dynamics

3 个月

Brendan , congratulations! I have enjoyed following your every step. You are making us hoteliers in Ottawa very proud! Keep going!

Melanie Corbin

Corporate Travel Program Lead at Kinaxis | Finance * Views held are my own*

3 个月

What a great and inspirational journey you have had so far. I am happy to have been part of that a long long time ago when you first came to Ottawa. I feel carving out your own path will be the most rewarding.

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