Name: Nick O.
Position: Maintenance Supervisor
Hotel: Moxy Sydney Airport  
Dream destination: The Seychelles or Mauritius   
Drink or treat of choice: A good red wine, like Gevrey-Chambertin or a Nuit Saint George. Closely followed by Cointreau, but not together. LOL. 

Before Nick applied for a job at Marriott, he had “lived in hotels for the best part of 40 years,” he says. That’s because for over three decades Nick worked as a glass furnace commissioner travelling all over Australia and the world.  

After being retired for a few months, he realized he wanted to do “something constructive with his time,” as he explains, and serendipity — or the algorithm — showed him the ad for an open position as a Maintenance Supervisor at the Moxy Sydney Airport hotel at exactly the right time.  

Now, almost two years after getting the job, he’s so glad he applied! As Nick explains, this position has given him both the flexibility to help look after his granddaughter as well as great camaraderie with his team at work — he’s known among his peers for his dad-jokes. Additionally, he and his family are loving the Explore by Marriott Bonvoy Program and other Marriott benefits.   

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Even though starting a position in a brand-new sector following a 35-year career is not always easy, Nick has ridden the learning curve and he’s loving it. Keep reading to learn more about Nick’s journey as well as how he’s making the most of his career change and new life at Marriott, in his own words.    

What made you apply for a job at Marriott?

I have lived in hotels for the best part of 40 years, and I’ve stayed in quite a few Marriott hotels around Australia and the world. After being semi-retired for a few months, I had been looking for a job as I realized that I had to do something constructive with my time. I saw the advert for joining the maintenance crew at The Moxy, [and I saw it] involved electrics, plumbing, computers, gas appliances etc. and I had experience in most of the requirements, so I sent in my application and resume to my now boss.  

How was the interview process?    

At the interview we immediately got on and had lots to talk about; the upkeep of a hotel, my experience in different fields. I got a call from my boss that afternoon offering me the position as maintenance supervisor. I completed all the paperwork that same afternoon and started the week after. And, as they say, the rest is history.  

Since you started, what is a moment when you’ve felt supported at Marriott?  

The support from all the team members, from the General Manager, housekeeping, my immediate boss, front of house… has been tremendous. Once I had a small family emergency some time ago, I explained it to my boss and his response was fabulous. [He said] “Go and sort it out, take as much time as you need,” which I was truly grateful for.   

How has Marriott’s flexibility helped you in your work and life?   

In my current roster I work four days a week, 10 hours a day. [This schedule] gives me a three-day weekend every week, which allows me to spend more time with my children and my granddaughter. And it also lets me plan weekends away and has increased my social life tremendously.

What’s something you love about working at Marriott?  

Honestly, it’s almost like a giant family. Everyone helps out everyone. From clearing the tables after a very busy breakfast, to helping with the valet parking to just listening when people need to talk. It is a community. 

How would you describe your experience as a Marriott associate?  

My time with Marriott has been an amazing ride from enjoying the camaraderie, to the benefits of the major discount we get when we stay at one of our sister hotels, which I take complete advantage of, for myself and for my family. When I stay at another Marriott hotel, I’m always made to feel extra welcome.  

Any advice for new Marriott associates?  

Enjoy your time with “the Marriott family” and the rewards will come to you. Also, take full advantage of the Explore rates. I know I have! 

How have you used the Explore by Marriott Bonvoy program?  

I have used it extensively. Since I joined Bonvoy last year, I have reached the silver tier with all my “staycations”. Also, my son has used it in Europe, and my daughter in Australia and on her travels worldwide. They are an excellent benefit and bonus that Marriott offers. 

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