Be Inspired: Marriott Career Stories - Derek Wood

From a nine-stool A&W root beer stand to 8,000+ hotels,?Marriott International?has grown into one of the most influential companies in the hospitality industry. Like Marriott, many of us have humble beginnings.

We recently launched our new People Brand, “Be,” which highlights three themes: Begin, Belong, Become. As I reflected on my own career, I connected with some of our outstanding Eastern Region leaders to learn about their beginnings with Marriott — and how far they’ve come.

MEET: DEREK WOOD

Associate Director of Sales,?JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa

Derek began his journey with Marriott in 2005 as a Front Desk Agent at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center. Upon graduating college, he moved to Orlando to join the team at the Orlando World Center Marriott, followed by a year at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa.

Derek later accepted a role on the topline sales team in 2011, and has since had the opportunity to represent some of our incredible resort and convention hotels, including JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, and The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes; The Westin Peachtree Plaza, Atlanta; Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld, The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection; and the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa.

In 2019, Derek joined the pre-opening team of the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa. He has also had the honor to lead the Orlando chapter of ONE Marriott, the company’s LGBTQ+ Associate Resource Group, since 2013.

What inspired you to join Marriott, Derek?

"My brother worked for Marriott while attending culinary school and I always remember dropping him off at work and being so intrigued by the hotel business. Every time I would drive through the city with him, I would see these massive steel and glass buildings with their lit-up marquees. It gave me an overwhelming feeling of wanting to know more.

"After my first interview with Marriott in 2006, I knew this company would give me the opportunity to travel, experience various cultures, and learn so much about our world."

How has your career with Marriott inspired you or helped you fulfill your sense of purpose??

"When I walk through our associate entrance, I know I can be my authentic self. I feel so proud to work for a company that has such a longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion."

What has been your most rewarding memory with Marriott??

"The first time I walked with the Marriott International in the Pride parade at our nation’s capital, it was an overwhelming feeling of acceptance, and I felt so proud."?

How has Marriott helped you grow your career??

"Marriott has allowed me to travel the world, experience new cultures, and learn so much about myself and how important it is to embrace our differences."?

What advice would you offer to anyone looking to begin their career with Marriott??

"Be yourself, take risks, and embrace the importance of belonging."

To hear more career stories or join our outstanding team, visit the?Life at Marriott blog?on the?Marriott Careers website.