Name: Kristoffer Ian Atienza
Position: Director of Operations
Hotel: The Naka Island a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket
Dream destination: My dream travel destination includes a mix of stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling hikes. I dream of visiting Indonesia, where I can enjoy the pristine beaches of the Gili Islands and Bali while soaking in the local culture and hospitality. Immersing myself in Japan’s rich traditions, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, is also on my list. I’d love to sip coffee in the cafes of Paris, savoring the artistry of the city. Lastly, hiking in the majestic mountains of Switzerland, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, would make the perfect adventure.
Drink or treat of choice: My treat of choice is a dark, rich roasted coffee complemented by a piece of fine chocolate. The robust flavors of the coffee blend perfectly with the sweetness of the chocolate, making it the ideal indulgence for me. Inspired by this, I also dream of opening my coffee stand, where I can share this delightful pairing and my passion for coffee with others, creating a cozy space for people to enjoy their own moments of relaxation and indulgence. 

For Kristoffer, fondly known as Kris, making an impact both in the workplace and within the community is what matters most. As the Director of Operations at The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, Kris has a passion for creating amazing guest experiences and building a supportive team atmosphere.

“My experience as a Marriott associate has been highly positive and impactful,” shares Kris, who has both mentored associates and been mentored himself, while making full use of Marriott’s career development programs and growth opportunities. Kris believes that his mentorship experiences have “enriched my journey and reinforced the importance of fostering growth within our Marriott community.”

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Kris is also a powerful advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, being actively involved in promoting gender equality and LGBTQ+ advocacy, and joining events like Pride to help foster a more inclusive workplace. His impact can be felt through the different activities and initiatives he has participated in – not just in the workplace, but in the local community.

Discover more about Kris’ Marriott journey, and how he makes an impact in the workplace and community. 

What does your current role entail?

I am currently located at The Naka Island, a Luxury Collections Resort & Spa, where I have served as the Director of Operations since May 2022. My role involves overseeing the Rooms Division and Food & Beverage departments, including Spa, Recreation, and Kids Club, to ensure seamless hotel operations and enhance guest wellness experiences. I am responsible for designing budgeting, strategic and financial planning, and resource allocation to optimize profitability. I also streamline operational processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs while managing major projects such as property renovations and new service offerings, ensuring timely and budget-compliant delivery. Additionally, I ensure compliance with Marriott’s brand standards and Luxury Quality Assurance, delivering exceptional service quality and operational excellence across all departments.

Tell us about how you got your start with Marriott.

My Marriott career began in August 2006 as a Guest Services Agent at Sheraton Suites Eau Claire in Calgary, Canada. My journey with Marriott advanced as I took on roles like Supervisor at Westin Resort & Spa Whistler, Canada; Front Desk Agent at Four Points by Sheraton Sydney, Darling Harbour; and Front Office Manager at The St. Regis Singapore, The St. Regis Bangkok, Thailand, and The Westin Maldives. I progressed to Director of Rooms, and now serve as Director of Operations at The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Phuket, Thailand, where I oversee major departments and drive strategic initiatives. This journey has elevated my leadership skills and operational expertise in luxury hospitality.

How would you describe your experience as a Marriott associate?

My experience as a Marriott associate has been highly positive and impactful. Starting as a Front Desk Agent, I’ve progressed through various roles, gaining valuable skills in hospitality and leadership. Being part of the Marriott Development Academy 2022 and the Emerging Leaders Program 2024 has equipped me with essential tools for advancing my career. Additionally, participating in the Rooms Advisory Board 2024 for the APEC region has allowed me to contribute to key initiatives and collaborate with peers across the region, strengthening our shared commitment to excellence. Marriott’s commitment to high standards and guest satisfaction is evident in every aspect of the organization, and my time here has significantly shaped my career in the hospitality industry.

What mentorship opportunities have you had, and how have they helped you in your journey?

I have had valuable mentorship opportunities both as a mentor and as a mentee, particularly through my involvement in the Emerging Leaders Program at Marriott. As a mentee, I received guidance from experienced leaders who shared their insights, helping me navigate career challenges and enhancing my leadership skills. The program provided structured learning and networking opportunities that were crucial for my professional development.  As a mentor to Voyagers, I was able to guide new associates in their journey, which deepened my understanding of effective communication and leadership. Both experiences, combined with my participation in the Emerging Leaders Program, have enriched my journey and reinforced the importance of fostering growth within our Marriott community.

What are some learning and development programs you have attended, and how have they helped you in your career?

I have attended several learning and development programs at Marriott that have significantly impacted my career. One most notable program was the Emerging Leaders Program, where I gained essential leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a broader perspective on hospitality management. This program provided a valuable network of peers and mentors, enriching my learning experience.  In addition, I was awarded a scholarship to attend a semester-long course on Hotel Financial Statements Analysis at the École Hôtelière de Lausanne in 2023. This experience deepened my understanding of financial management in the hospitality industry, enhancing my ability to optimize profitability in my current role. Overall, these programs have equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in my positions and advance within the organization.

Proudest moment of your career so far?

Some of the proudest moments of my career so far have been the opportunities I’ve had to travel around the world, which have not only expanded my professional network but also enriched my understanding of diverse cultures and hospitality practices. These experiences have significantly shaped my career and fueled my passion for the industry. I’m also proud of opening new venues, such as the Airport Lounge and Kids Club in Westin Maldives, and the Kids Club and Ao Po Grand Marina Arrival Lounge at The Naka Island. These project involved extensive planning, collaboration, and dedication from our entire team, and seeing them come to life was incredibly rewarding. It was so fulfilling to witness the positive impact these venues have on guest experiences, particularly for families.

What are some culture and DEI events or Serve360 events you have participated in, and how was the experience?

I’ve had some great experiences participating in culture and Serve360 events. One of my highlights was being a guest speaker at the Marriott Pride Day Celebration, where I got to chat about inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. It was awesome to connect with everyone, raise awareness, and promote acceptance in the workplace. I’ve also been involved in some great initiatives that promote gender equality, and it’s been really inspiring to see how we’re creating opportunities for women to move forward in their careers. Additionally, I’ve participated in cross-cultural training, which has helped me appreciate the diverse backgrounds of our associates and guests. These experiences have really highlighted how important diversity and inclusion are in making Marriott a welcoming place for everyone, no matter their background or identity.

As for community impact, I also designed a program for our team to teach English at local schools every week, which has been a great way to connect with the community and help out the kids. Plus, I partnered with a local farm to buy mud crabs, which not only supports local farmers but also adds something special to our menu. Overall, these events have been really rewarding and have strengthened our community ties.

Any advice for incoming Marriott associates?

For all the new Marriott associates coming on board, my advice is to soak up everything you can. Get to know the company culture and just dive in – teamwork and service are key here. Don’t be shy about reaching out to more experienced colleagues for mentorship, and definitely jump into any training programs available. Building good relationships with your team makes a big difference. Remember, stay open to feedback and be flexible because things can change quickly in this industry. Your dedication and eagerness to learn will take you far at Marriott!

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