Name: Mike Q.
Position: Director of HR Operations
Location: Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Dream destination: Cape Town, South Africa
Drink or treat of choice: A beer from any of the local breweries here in San Diego!

As an HR Leader and self-professed people-first person, Mike knows the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive work environment.

“Marriott has always been a place where I have felt encouraged and safe being myself, even when I was still discovering who that was,” says Mike, who says he’s experienced that support since he first started with the company eight years ago.

“I have felt accepted and valued for who I am, and I have been able to bring my whole self to work each day,” he says. “Marriott’s commitment to diversity and inclusion has allowed me to thrive and succeed in my career, and I am proud to be a part of a company that prioritizes equality and acceptance.”

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

Today, as an HR Director of Operations at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, working toward that goal continues to be one of Mike’s biggest motivations. “I strive to ensure that Marriott is a place where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. I am committed to continuing advocating for diversity and inclusion within the company.”

Besides his professional commitment, another way in which Mike continues to advocate for a more inclusive workplace is by being a member of Marriott’s LGBTQ+ Associate Resource Group (ARG), ONE — and not just joining, but leading the San Diego chapter of the group since 2023.

“So far, we have done several volunteer opportunities for organizations that support the local LGBTQ+ community in San Diego, and I am looking forward to getting more involved in the community as well,” he says.

Keep reading to learn more about Mike’s journey and experience.

What made you want to join this resource group?

Joining the LGBTQ+|ONE group has allowed me to connect with other members of the LGBTQ+ community to learn from them, but also be inspired to see that Marriott values people from all different backgrounds. Everyone knows that DEI is an important initiative for workplaces across the country, but to see Marriott really push forward and create these groups makes me feel proud to be a part of this organization.

How has LGBTQ+|ONE contributed to your personal and professional growth?

I am just starting with this group and look forward to seeing what it brings into my personal and professional life. But I have already been able to network with other members in San Diego, which has been great to make connections. I have also enjoyed hearing about the initiatives other markets around the world have been doing and brainstorming how I can bring activities like that to the teams here in San Diego.

What lets you know the LGBTQ+|ONE is contributing to fostering a more inclusive and diverse workplace?

I think LGBTQ+|ONE has shown me that no matter what your background is, Marriott is a place where you are valued for your differences. You can see leaders and associates at all levels of the organization who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community.

What are your future goals within the Associate Resource Group?

I am just excited to continue to develop the group for the San Diego market. I would love to have regular opportunities for our mentors to volunteer with the local LGBTQ+ community. I’m also looking to bring new programs and ideas in, whether it is through educational activities, fundraisers or just a fun time with LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies, it is great to have the support of the ARGs.

How would you describe the culture at Marriott?

Marriott really lives up to the Core Value of Putting People First. At every property where I have worked, it’s always been so inspiring to me to work with associates who have decades of tenure with Marriott. I have worked with two different associates with over 50 years of service! When you hear directly from them what Marriott has provided them and their families and what has kept them working here all these years, you realize the impact of our people-first culture.

Have you used the Marriott Explore Rate?

This was the reason I first wanted to work for Marriott! I love using the Explore Rate, whether for a full vacation or just a night away. It’s great to have the benefit of exploring our world at discounted prices and earn Marriott Bonvoy points while doing it. And my family loves being able to use the Explore rate when they travel even more than I do. They always tell me I am never allowed to leave Marriott because even they get travel perks because of my job!

→ Marriott Is Hiring! Find What You’re Looking For in a Career