How This Pastry Pro and Mom of Two Found Support and Career Growth

Name: Nagypsy M.
Position: Assistant Pastry Sous Chef
Hotel: The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort
Dream destination: Greece
Drink or treat of choice:My drink of choice will always be frozen lemonade with a cherry on top.

As an assistant pastry sous chef, Nagypsy is in charge of creating new and exciting desserts — from cakes to personalized sweet displays and, of course, wedding cakes — at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, a romantic destination hotel steps from the sand in Miami Beach. Does it get any sweeter than that?

Before starting her Marriott journey in 2015, Nagypsy studied at Johnson and Wales University for Baking and Pastry Arts and Food Service Management.

“Since I joined [Marriott], my goal has always been to get better at my task, grow professionally, and learn,” she says. “I have done it all and no matter how much time has passed, every day I get to improve and learn.”

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Since being promoted to her current role, Nagypsy is able to see the results of her culinary and creative efforts directly. “Seeing the guests enjoy every single inch of them is the type of experience I will forever carry in my heart,” she says. But beyond the rewards of seeing the results of a job well done, her main drive and source of inspiration is her kids, Mila and Leo. “They make me want to be better professionally and show them that when you work hard for your dreams anything is possible.”

St. Regis Assistant Pastry Sous Chef
Courtesy of Nagypsy M.

From finding motivation and creativity in the kitchen to delighting in the results of a hard day’s work, Nagypsy details her inspiring journey below.

What attracted you to want to work at Marriott instead of a traditional restaurant or bakery?

The opportunities. Marriott not only is a second home to me, but it is also a world full of opportunities for everyone. The amount of growth [that’s possible] both professionally and personally is endless.

How would you describe your experience as a Marriott associate?

A one-of-a-kind experience. I get to live and enjoy the art of service. I put my heart into everything I do and try to make every experience a remarkable one for our guests.

St. Regis Assistant Pastry Sous Chef
Courtesy of Nagypsy M.

What was your interview process like, and any tips for candidates who want a role like yours?

It was not easy but definitely very rewarding. Nothing worthy comes easy and my only tip to those candidates who are looking to grow in this industry is to keep going. You got this, and it will be worth it! Keep trying and keep applying because your chance to shine will come.

How would you describe the culture?

“Putting people first” is the first thing that comes into my mind. Service of excellence by embracing change and always acting with integrity.

St. Regis Assistant Pastry Sous Chef
Courtesy of Nagypsy M.

How has Marriott supported you as an artisan?

With infinite training opportunities and professional growth. Also, the number of great leaders who have been on my journey motivates me and inspires me to inspire others.

What does a good day at work look like for you?

Connecting with the team. Being involved and hands-on. Not forgetting what I truly love most: creating memorable experiences for our guests through food and service. A good day at work is being present in the kitchen and creating art.

St. Regis Assistant Pastry Sous Chef
Courtesy of Nagypsy M.

What is your favorite part of the job?

The results will always be my favorite part of the job. Seeing the result of the projects, desserts, or amenities we have been working hard for days or weeks and seeing the guests enjoy every single inch of them is the type of experience I will forever carry in my heart.

What’s your favorite recipe to make?

Macarons! I love how creative we can be when making these French cookies. The science and technique behind it, it’s just wow!

St. Regis Assistant Pastry Sous Chef
Courtesy of Nagypsy M.

What inspires you, and when are you able to be your most creative self?

I can be my most creative self when I see challenges and new opportunities to shine. It makes me want to be better than yesterday and go the extra mile.

What has surprised you most about your job?

The support system. From leaders to co-workers, they are just there for you and for that, I am always grateful.

How have you used the Marriott Explore Rate?

I have used the Marriott Explore Rate to travel around Europe and within the United States. The number of benefits we get as Marriott associates is amazing! The fact that we can also share those benefits with family is like giving them the opportunity to enjoy the service we provide for our guests.

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