This Mom of Three Shows the Unlikely Connection Between Housekeeping and Storytelling

Name: Nina S.
Position: Rooms Operations Housekeeping Manager
Hotel: West Palm Beach Marriott
Dream destination: Santorini, Greece
Drink or treat of choice: Frozen caramel coffee with extra caramel

By day, Nina is a Rooms Operations Housekeeping Manager at the West Palm Beach Marriott. By night, she’s a mother of three — and a published author!

From a young age, Nina always enjoyed creating a welcoming environment and making a difference in people’s day-to-day experiences, but she didn’t know it would lead to a career in hospitality.

“What drove me in this direction was honestly seeing how happy and comfortable my mother was working as a Front Desk Agent at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes,” Nina says. “There was something about all her hospitality stories that piqued my interest. Plus, the hospitality industry is dynamic and offers endless opportunities to learn and grow.”

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Nina was first welcomed to Marriott as a Turndown Attendant in the Housekeeping department. Within a year, she transitioned into a house aid, then public space attendant and evening supervisor. In her current role, Nina oversees over 50 housekeepers and maintains high standards of cleanliness and guest satisfaction.

“Throughout my journey at Marriott, I have experienced significant growth and development. Each position has provided me with valuable skills and insights, allowing me to enhance my leadership abilities and deepen my understanding of the hospitality industry,” Nina says. “My career at Marriott has been a transformative experience, shaping me into a more confident and capable professional.”

Nina has spent the past 11 years caring for guests and her team. This year, she pursued her own passion: writing a book.

“Marriott’s emphasis on work-life balance gave me the opportunity to finally pursue my own dreams. With three children, I have countless relatable stories to share, and I felt that sharing my experiences could help others in similar situations. The work-life balance allows me to pursue my personal passions, like writing, while still excelling in my professional role. This balance is crucial for my overall happiness and fulfillment.”

Nina found a meaningful connection between her career at Marriott and writing a children’s book: Mackenzie’s Fantastic Feast.

“Both roles involve creating welcoming and enriching environments, whether it’s for guests or young readers,” Nina says. “Additionally, working at Marriott has taught me the importance of storytelling and personal connections. Just as I strive to make each guest’s stay memorable, I aimed to create a book that would leave a lasting impression on children and their families. Overall, my experiences at Marriott and as a mother have enriched my storytelling, making the book a true reflection of my journey and passions.”

Furthermore, Nina has found support not only from her family, but also her colleagues.

“When my book was published, the support and encouragement from my Marriott family were overwhelming. They celebrated my success as if it were their own, which made the achievement even more special,” Nina says. “This dual recognition reaffirmed the value of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of a supportive community. It highlighted that success is not just about professional milestones but also about personal growth and the ability to inspire others through your journey.”

Learn more about Nina and her passion for storytelling — both at work and at home:

How would you describe your experience as a Marriott associate?

Marriott’s supportive and inclusive culture has provided me with numerous opportunities for professional growth and personal development. The company’s commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction aligns perfectly with my own values, making it a joy to come to work every day. I’ve had the chance to lead a dedicated team, mentor new employees, and continuously improve our services, which has been both challenging and gratifying.

Moreover, Marriott’s emphasis on work-life balance has been crucial for me as a mother. The flexibility and understanding from the company have allowed me to manage my responsibilities at work while also being present for my family.

How would you describe Marriott’s culture?

Marriott’s culture is one that values people, encourages growth, and strives for excellence in all aspects of hospitality. It’s a place where employees can thrive and feel part of a larger family.

Describe a moment you felt supported at Marriott.

One of the most challenging times for my family was when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. During this difficult period, Marriott truly stood by their people-first philosophy. Executive members generously donated their personal leave time to my mother while she was on leave for her recovery. They also allowed me to take time off to care for her, ensuring I could be there when she needed me most. The constant check-ins, not just for my mother but also for my own mental health, meant the world to me.

Additionally, I experienced incredible support during my two pregnancies while working at Marriott. The team ensured I had everything I needed to work comfortably and have healthy pregnancies. The surprise baby showers were a testament to the love and support the Marriott family provides.

Proudest moment of your career so far?

One of the proudest moments of my career so far has been receiving recognition not only for my daily hard work as a housekeeping manager but also for my accomplishments outside of work, such as writing my book. Balancing a demanding career with personal achievements has been incredibly fulfilling.

What is your favorite part of the job?

I love the interactions with both guests and my team. Building relationships with repeat guests and hearing their appreciation for our work is rewarding. Leading and mentoring my team, watching them grow and succeed, is another highlight. It’s fulfilling to create a supportive and collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and motivated.

What inspires you?

What inspires me the most is the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s ensuring a guest has a comfortable and memorable stay or supporting my team in their professional growth, knowing that my efforts contribute to others’ happiness and success is incredibly motivating.

My children are also a significant source of inspiration. Their curiosity, resilience, and joy remind me of the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment, both at home and at work. They inspire me to lead by example and strive for excellence in everything I do.

What advice do you have for those interested in working at Marriott?

Be prepared to support and be supported by your colleagues. This sense of community is one of the most rewarding aspects of working here.

Whether you start in an entry-level position or come in with experience, there are always paths to grow and develop your skills. Be proactive in seeking out these opportunities. The hospitality industry can be demanding, but maintaining a positive attitude and resilience will help you navigate challenges. Remember, your efforts contribute to creating memorable experiences for guests.

Working at Marriott has been a transformative experience for me, both professionally and personally.

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