Name: Luciano O.
Position: Employment Manager
Hotel: JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
Dream destination: A place I haven’t experienced before, staying at a Marriott hotel, and immersing myself in the local surroundings.

For a company as large as Marriott, sourcing prospective employees is a critical component to a successful operation. Across hundreds of countries, our rockstar recruiters must ensure they get the best and most people-oriented associates to work at our thousands of hotels worldwide. And that’s precisely what Luciano does at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa in the Texas Hill Country.

“Although I do assist in multiple Human Resources operation projects, my focus is talent acquisition. Some of my responsibilities include strategic planning, team management, recruitment process, sourcing and networking, compliance and diversity, and reporting recruitment metrics,” he explains.

Luciano’s journey with Marriott started when he was still a student at New Mexico State University, at a college career fair. There, he was approached by Marriott and got an offer for a summer internship in Food & Beverage as a server at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. That was the beginning of an over a decade-long career in the company in many different roles and locations around the U.S.

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From Front Desk Agent to Human Resources Manager and, most recently, Employment Manager, Luciano has worked all around San Antonio, Denver and St. Louis.

“Although life led me away from the company for a few years, my professional connections endured,” he recalls. “An enticing opportunity arose, leading me to the role of Human Resources Manager at the Marriott St. Louis Grand in Saint Louis, MO. During this period, I circled back to where it all began a decade earlier returning as a Human Resources Employment Manager at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country.”

Learn more about Luciano’s full circle journey in his own words below.

How would you describe your experience as a Marriott associate?

It can be encapsulated in two words: motivating and supportive. I attribute this positive experience to the pervasive culture that Marriott cultivates within each of its hotels. This culture is deeply rooted in the company’s core values. No matter what Marriott hotel I’ve been a part of, I’ve consistently felt a compelling drive to excel in my role, reinforced by the encouragement and support from both my colleagues and leaders. The shared commitment to these values fosters an environment where motivation and support are not just encouraged but ingrained in the fabric of the Marriott experience.

What is your favorite part of the job?

Currently, what I enjoy most about my role is linking individuals to opportunities within Marriott. The person who initially recruited me did the same, and I am motivated to extend that support to others. I believe that Marriott offers tremendous career prospects, as evidenced by the positive experiences shared not only by myself but also by countless associates.

Any advice for candidates interested in working for Marriott?

I recommend approaching the application process with an open mind and actively engaging in networking. Despite having prior management experience, my own journey with Marriott began as a server, a role I thoroughly enjoyed. This initial position gave me the chance to enhance skills I already had, and as I navigated my career within the company, I found opportunities to transfer and carve out my unique path within Marriott.

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

To be candid, the interview process at Marriott stood out as more comprehensive and detailed compared to any other I had previously undergone. Now, working as a recruiter for the company, I understand the rationale behind this approach. Marriott is committed to hiring the most qualified candidates to maintain elevated standards as the world’s preferred travel company. Here are my tips: take the time to document instances where you’ve made a meaningful impact, ensuring you’re prepared with concrete examples during the interview. If you find yourself thinking you lack sufficient experience, delve a bit deeper. Whether through involvement in a church group, contributing to organizing a fundraising event, or participating in a sports team, there are likely skills you’ve acquired that can be effectively applied in your Marriott interview. Remember, skills are continually evolving, and Marriott values the diverse experiences individuals bring to the table.

Which of Marriott’s values resonate most with you?

In all honesty, each of Marriott’s core values holds a personal resonance for me. Recently, I’ve found myself particularly drawn to the value of “Embrace Change.” Life is an ever-evolving journey, filled with both personal, local and global shifts. It’s not just about the changes themselves but the attitude one adopts towards them and how one navigates the obstacles they present. Life has thrown its share of curveballs my way, but I choose to embrace change, maintaining a forward-looking perspective and pressing onward.

How would you describe Marriott’s culture?

Marriott goes the extra mile in supporting every facet of your career, respecting your aspirations and lifestyle choices. The company is exceptionally inclusive, celebrating diversity at every turn. Regardless of your background or future plans, Marriott ensures that you always feel welcome.

Describe a moment you felt supported at Marriott.

I distinctly remember a moment at Marriott when I felt truly supported. During a challenging period when there was a family accident, I needed to take a week off to support my family. Without any hesitation, my supervisor at the time readily assisted me in taking the necessary time off to attend to my personal needs. It was evident that she genuinely cared for my family’s well-being.

How have you used the Marriott Explore Rate?

I’ve explored New Orleans, enjoying a stay at The Saint, Autograph Collection. In Nashville, I experienced the hospitality of the Gaylord Opryland, and in El Paso, TX, I indulged in the luxury of Hotel Paso Del Norte, Autograph Collection. Anticipating the upcoming year, I’m excited about my plans for international travel and I’m intending to leverage my Marriott Explore Rate discount for that too.

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