Name: Shanique M.
Position: Director of Human Resources
Hotel: Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West
Dream destination: Bora Bora
Drink or treat of choice: Snickers Ice-Cream Bar
Career growth and internal mobility are undoubtedly some of the top reasons Marriott associates love where they work — especially when there’s the potential to move to a brand-new city, or even country. It’s one of the perks of belonging to a big, global organization.
Along with stories of internal transfers, it’s also pretty common to hear of associates pivoting into Human Resources from other job families — whether it be from Guest Experience, Sales & Marketing or even from Engineering. So, why is that?
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“Human beings are the most important asset of our company,” says Shanique, whose transition from tech to HR happened five years after joining Marriott’s IT department. “That’s why I made the decision to pivot into this career. If we take care of them and show them that they matter, we will continue to be successful.”
Shanique, the Director of Human Resources at the Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West, is referencing Marriott’s most famed core value: Put People First.
“This is at the core of Marriott’s culture and certainly the reason why I made the decision to join the company,” says Shanique, whose role at the Texas hotel includes overseeing the day-to-day management of the HR department as well as strategically planning and supporting recruiting, retention and employee engagement efforts.
In addition to valuing Marriott’s career opportunities, Shanique also appreciates the importance that the company places on hiring Veterans, as Shanique’s husband is a Veteran of the U.S. Airforce.
“Marriott is a huge supporter of hiring Veterans,” Shanique says. “This was very inspiring for me and my family.”
Learn more about Shanique’s journey as both an HR leader and Veteran spouse, in her own words, below.
What was your Marriott interview process like?
The interview process was very thorough. Marriott is a great company for opportunities. I transitioned from IT into the HR field; many skills were very transferable. I had an innate desire to help people and coach them into seeing their full potential — very much like transitioning from the military, different industry but transferable skills.
As a veteran spouse, do you have any advice for Veterans who might be looking to pivot into hospitality?
You have the skills needed to be successful in hospitality. You know how to take care of people and the military is all about service. Bring that with you and Marriott will teach you the rest.
How would you describe your experience as a Marriott associate?
Marriott has been a great company to be a part of. I’ve been in hospitality for 19 years and been with Marriott for 10 of those years. It feels great to be a part of a company where my values are aligned, and I believe in what the company represents. Not many people are able to experience this in their lifetime. I truly believe that Marriott always just wants to “Do the right thing” and that feels good.
What’s surprised you most about working for Marriott?
That a large company could still feel like such a small family.
Favorite part of the job?
The ability to be so impactful in the lives of so many associates, one small decision at a time.
How have you used the Marriott Explore Rate?
Family vacations to celebrate special moments such as birthdays and anniversaries.
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