Name: Jose R.
Position: Food and Beverage Administrative Assistant
Hotel: Halifax Marriott Harbor Front

There’s something grounding about being near the ocean. For Jose, it’s more than a view—it’s a feeling of home. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Jose now calls Halifax home, where salty sea air, fresh seafood, and even horses are part of everyday life.

Jose is a Food and Beverage Administrative Assistant at the Halifax Marriott Harbor Front, and his role touches just about every corner of the operation—from supporting outlets and banquets to payroll, recruitment, and even overseeing the hotel’s golf simulator. But what really stands out when you talk to Jose isn’t how much he does—it’s how deeply he feels he belongs.

→ Learn About New Career Opportunities at Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel

From volunteering with a therapeutic riding program to building a career in the Maritimes, Jose’s story is about finding unexpected connections and discovering that sometimes, the place you didn’t plan on choosing ends up choosing you.

As a F&B Admin Assistant, what does a typical day look like for you?

I support both the outlets and banquets team as a supervisor, collaborate with managers in HR and the recruitment process for food and beverage, and I’m also the property’s payroll administrator. I oversee the golf simulator on our property and take on various tasks to help support both the food and beverage and events teams.

What first drew you to working at Marriott in the Maritimes?

I started my career with Marriott in the summer of 2015 during my first summer job at a Marriott property in the United States. After moving to Canada, I knew I wanted to join Marriott again. I started at this property in the summer of 2023 as a food and beverage Voyager, and after completing the program, I moved into my current position.

Why did you know you wanted to come back to Marriott?

My experience as an associate has always been fantastic. That’s one of the reasons I wanted to come back. I’m part of an amazing team, I have a fantastic leader, and I feel truly valued—as a person and as a professional. That sense of belonging makes all the difference.

How has the company supported you in your career journey so far?

At Marriott, I feel most supported when it comes to work-life balance. We have access to the TakeCare program, which I’ve personally used for mental health resources, financial guidance, and more. Flexible scheduling and paid time off make it easier to balance work and personal life. It shows that Marriott truly cares about our overall well-being, not just our jobs.

What do you love to do outside of work?

I’m really passionate about horses. I volunteer with a therapeutic riding program here in Halifax while I wait to start riding lessons myself. I also enjoy reading, and I’ve recently started practicing yoga and Pilates, which has been the best idea ever. On my days off, I love being outdoors, spending time with friends, and, if possible, being around horses.

What made you choose working in the Maritimes?

I didn’t originally apply to work in Halifax when I applied to be a Voyager, but the opportunity came my way, so I’d like to say the Maritimes chose me. I’m very happy about it. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve made! I’m from an island, from the Dominican Republic, and living by the ocean again feels like home. Having access to great seafood and even a stable in the middle of the city, where I can work with horses, makes it feel like a little piece of home away from home.

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