In the hospitality industry, there are several key management roles that contribute to a venue's success. Two of these are the Food & Beverage Manager and the Restaurant Manager. Both positions have a major impact on the performance of a hospitality business.

Soft skills are playing an increasingly important role in the hospitality sector. These are personal skills that contribute to effective teamwork and an outstanding guest experience. Nowadays, employers, HR teams, and recruiters place less emphasis on degrees and focus more on a candidate's soft skills. 

With a career that started in a small hotel in Helmond and extended to renowned hotels such as Pulitzer Amsterdam, Alex van Gastel has forged an impressive path in the hospitality industry. His Brabant roots, where hospitality is deeply embedded, formed the foundation for his passion and drive in the field.

Esther Blok started her hospitality journey at the age of fifteen, working her way up from serving in a pizzeria to winning the Future Hotel Leader Award 2025. Her passion for hospitality evolved into a love for the hotel industry, with a strong focus on front office and leadership. As of May 1, 2025, she will take on the role of Hotel Manager at Moxy and Residence Inn The Hague.

In the hotel industry, hospitality is key to providing an unforgettable guest experience. Various departments play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and pleasant stay. Three common roles that frequently interact with guests are guest relations, the concierge, and the reception. 

With an early fascination for hospitality and a career full of inspiring challenges, Päivi Hagedoorn has paved an impressive path in the hospitality industry. From her first steps in a coffee shop to managing hotel openings and leading teams at renowned hotels like Hotel De L’Europe and IHCP, her story is one of growth, passion, and vision.

The hospitality industry has undergone significant changes, not only due to technological advancements but also because of external factors. The impact of the pandemic, combined with the challenges of an energy crisis, staff shortages, and inflation, has left a lasting mark on the hospitality sector. 

Melle van Uden, the dynamic General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Rotterdam Centre, Mainport Hotel Rotterdam, and soon-to-be Hotel Haven Rotterdam, Curio Collection by Hilton, brings a fresh perspective to the Rotterdam hospitality industry.

The hospitality industry is diverse and dynamic, with hotels varying greatly in style, amenities, and guest types. For professionals in this sector, understanding the unique characteristics of different types of hotels is essential.

With a strong background in the hospitality sector and years of experience at renowned chains like Hilton and Van der Valk, Lenneke Jullion-Ambachtsheer has had an inspiring journey from commercial roles to HR management.