Name: Krishna Chua
Position: Cluster IT Manager
Location: Sydney, Australia
Dream destination: Machu Picchu Peru, Finland, Scotland and Ireland
Drink or treat of choice: I would like to try the Cincinnati’s Best Root Beer. I’ve heard great things about it and I think it would be a fun way to connect with Marriott’s roots. Plus, I’m always up for trying unique and local flavors when I travel – it’s a great way to experience the culture of a new place.

A company whose values “resonate with my own” – that’s Krishna’s dream company. Krishna believes in innovation, diversity and inclusion, and making a difference, and Marriott International’s core values and commitment to these causes spoke straight to her heart.

“Marriott is an ideal place for me to contribute my skills and expertise. I was inspired by Marriott’s strong culture, its emphasis on innovation, and its dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for guests,” Krishna shares.

→ Learn About the Wide Range of Hotel Career Journeys at Marriott

Currently a Cluster IT Manager based in Sydney Australia and managing the IT team for six Marriott properties, Krishna’s career has been filled with opportunities to make an impact, both within the company, and externally through Serve360 volunteering opportunities.

Learn more about Krishna’s journey, and how the strong culture at Marriott has empowered her to grow.

Tell us a bit about your career journey – how has Marriott supported you in this journey?

Marriott has helped to develop my confidence – in my journey, I’ve come out of my shell to showcase my skills and capabilities, and to collaborate more effectively with my colleagues. In 2017, I joined Marriott as a Cluster IT Manager, first in Samoa, before moving to Sydney, Australia. It’s been seven years, and every day, I feel empowered to take on challenges with my team – there’s always a positive spirit in the air!

Marriott has supported my growth by providing opportunities for training and development, allowing me to enhance my skills and knowledge. I’ve also had the opportunity to take on different projects and responsibilities – I get to try new things and expand my knowledge and experience. I would say my Marriott career has truly been a journey of growth, learning, and development, and I am grateful for the opportunities to progress and contribute to the company’s success. I’m looking forward to continuing my journey with Marriott, and embracing new challenges and opportunities as they come.

Are there any moments where you were able to witness your impact first-hand?

There have been times where the team has had challenges fixing certain system bugs, infrastructure designs, and other platform initiatives. However, I was able to collaborate with different teams, including our HQ in the US, to eliminate these issues and propose new infrastructure design, which I believe will greatly benefit our hotels and stakeholders, and most importantly, our guests. These changes have led to improvements in my team’s efficiency and productivity, and we have gotten positive feedback within the team as well as from various hotel stakeholders. It has been rewarding to witness the impact of my work, and to see the positive changes it has brought to the organization. I believe that my efforts have made a difference and have contributed to the success of the company.

How would you describe Marriott’s culture?

For me, Marriott’s culture is like a family – we unite together for everything! What I love most about the culture is the strong focus on giving back to the community, through charity, volunteering, and many other channels. I have seen how the company supports and encourages associates to volunteer through different Serve360 initiatives, to make a difference in our local communities. The company values diversity and inclusion, and I have always felt respected and valued as a member of the team. The culture at Marriott promotes teamwork, collaboration, and a strong sense of belonging. Overall, I would describe Marriott’s culture as inclusive, caring, and focused on making a positive impact both within the company and in the world.

When have you felt like a part of the community at Marriott?

I fell in love with this company from the moment I joined. Marriott’s core values have become a strong foundation for our culture, and the high company standards only continue to reinforce it. Everyone treats each other with respect, and our culture is embodied by all associates. One particular moment that made me feel like a part of the community at Marriott was during our annual APEC (CLS) and Associate Appreciation Week celebrations. As part of the festivities, associates from different departments came together to celebrate our diverse backgrounds and cultures, through cultural performances, traditional foods, and interactive activities, all aimed at learning and appreciating each other’s cultural backgrounds. It was so heartwarming to see everyone come together and embrace diversity, and it made me proud to be a part of such an inclusive and welcoming community at Marriott.

When have you felt most supported by Marriott?

Back when I was working in Western Samoa, we were hit by a cyclone. I thought I was fighting alone – the properties I was managing had been wrecked, and the hotel properties was facing financial struggles as well. However, Marriott saw my capabilities and skills, and with the strong support of Marriott’s regional leaders, I was given the opportunity to move to and work in Australia. In Marriott, I’ve always felt empowered to shine and showcase my skills and experiences, and I am always grateful for the opportunities Marriott has presented me with.

There is much room for personal and professional growth within the company, and much support from colleagues and leaders alike. Whether it’s through training programs, mentorship, or simply a listening ear, I have always felt valued and supported at Marriott. This has allowed me to thrive and excel in my role, and I am proud to be a part of such a supportive and nurturing work environment.

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