I’m Ahmed Raza and I’ve been part of the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel, VI team owned by the Honeywell Group for about 2 years. 

Put some coffee in the tank

A typical day for me starts with a good cup of coffee. After I’ve enjoyed that, I can prioritise the day’s tasks according to their level of importance, create a list of action items to refer to and check over action items from the day before. That’s the administrative start of the day. More important to me is taking some time to touch base with every member of my team. As a leader of a team, I believe it’s vital to set the tone for the day from the onset with a positive attitude and affirmative engagement.

No such thing as a typical day

Each day is a whole new adventure, and that’s exactly what I love about the job. I have the autonomy to build something that’s entirely my own, with the help of a first tier team. The regular afternoon involves a combination of meeting with guests and strategising with team members. We’re constantly looking for ways to ensure the hotel continues to be the success it is. 

I work out of a good old organiser, my notebook. I carry it with me everywhere I go, from the start of work in the morning to when I sign out for the day at 6pm. When you spend all day engaging with colleagues, guests and clients you find yourself with a stream of important events, observations and facts to take away with you; all that goes into my notebook.    

Making that connection

My favourite part of the job is the establishment and building of the personal connections. I feel privileged to spend each day engaging, first hand, with employees and a variety of guests, forging the kind of links that the hospitality business is built on.  It’s hard to pick a least favourite aspect of my job, but the truth is that part of any manager’s work involves having to make tough decisions and have difficult conversations that you’d probably rather not make or have. That will probably count as the least favourite part of my job.  

To anyone thinking of following in my footsteps, that is, interested in a career in hospitality, I’d say the most important attribute is the ability to be selfless. You’re a leader, so you must put the needs of your hotel and your team first. You must see things from the perspective of the owners and members of your team.

Family first

My family is my inspiration. The need to set a great example for my children drives me daily. That’s why, if I ever get a few spare hours, my first thought is spending some time with them. 

At work, I’m inspired by the support system offered by the senior leadership team at the Honeywell Group. Throughout my time with the company they’ve offered guidance, support and the chance to learn first-hand from their years of experience. 

In the long term

Looking to the future, I see myself overseeing a region of hotels, and taking on the role of guiding new, younger directors to becoming leaders in their markets. I’d like to provide the next generation with the kind of tools and knowledge which were transferred to me during my time with the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel.