Name: Nuttiya Nu-Ngamkham (Khun Bo)
Position: Executive Assistant Manager I Engineering
Hotel: The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket
Dream destination: Wherever I go, I seek out the essence of local culture.
Drink or treat of choice: Mojito

In a field where women are few, Nuttiya Nu-Ngamkham—fondly known as Khun Bo—is breaking barriers and building a legacy. As Executive Assistant Manager of Engineering at The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, she brings both strength and grace to her role, transforming the Engineering department into a driving force behind the resort’s success and exceptional guest services.

Khun Bo’s leadership extends far beyond technical expertise. With a powerful blend of empathy, vision, and determination, she empowers her team, fosters collaboration, and has expanded her influence to include not only Engineering, but also other pillars of the resort’s performance. Her journey is one of bold choices, continuous learning, and an unshakable belief that leadership is defined by the impact you create. From her early days as a Project Manager at JW Marriott Phuket to becoming a respected leader in the engineering discipline, Khun Bo has consistently defied expectations—with resilience, grit, and an infectious smile.

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Tell us about your Marriott career journey.

My Marriott journey began in 2017 at JW Marriott Phuket, where I started as a Project Manager. In 2019, I was promoted to Chief Engineer. Seeking new challenges, I took a bold step outside the company to serve as the Owner’s Representative for both the InterContinental Phuket and the Andaman Waterpark.

I returned to Marriott in 2022 as Director of Engineering at The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket. With passion and perseverance, our Engineering team achieved top Maintenance & Upkeep K Scores for two consecutive years. But what I’m most proud of is the culture of unity and shared purpose we built together. In April 2024, I was honored to be promoted to Executive Assistant Manager of Engineering. In this expanded role, I now oversee Engineering, Housekeeping, and Loss Prevention. I also lead the Heart of House—focusing not only on operational excellence but on developing our people, enhancing the work environment, and ultimately elevating the guest experience beyond expectations.

What does a typical day of work look like for you?

Every day is a fresh opportunity to learn, lead, and grow. I start by reviewing operations and catching up on emails, but the highlight is always our morning department meetings—where we align on goals, share ideas, and bring the Marriott culture to life.

I’m naturally proactive and hands on, so I make it a point to walk the property daily—not just to identify areas for improvement, but to listen, connect, and better understand how we can support one another. With a smile on my face, I encourage my team to think creatively, embrace challenges, and keep striving toward shared success.

What are some challenges you faced in your career and how did you overcome them?

One of the greatest challenges has been proving that women can lead with strength, decisiveness, and capability—especially in my technical role. I have learned that happiness is the foundation of exceptional work. When my team is happy, they naturally deliver extraordinary results. I focus on creating an environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered. I encourage my team to see beyond their perceived limitations and uncover their true potential. Everyone brings something unique—some need guidance to sharpen their skills, while others naturally elevate the team. As a leader, my role is to bring out the best in each individual and help them thrive.

How has Marriott and your hotel supported you in your development?

Marriott has provided me with countless opportunities to grow—both professionally and personally. From foundational training programs to dynamic Taskforce assignments at The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi, Renaissance Koh Samui, and Marriott Bangkok The Surawongse, each experience has helped me learn, adapt, and evolve as a leader. Attending the 2023 Operations Conference in Bali was a defining moment—it allowed me to connect with inspiring leaders from across APEC and gain a deeper understanding of Marriott’s broader vision. Most recently, I had the privilege of serving as a Countdown Trainer at Courtyard Patong and Khao Lak Marriott. It’s incredibly fulfilling to give back, share knowledge, and support others on their journey to success.

Describe a moment you felt like a part of a community at Marriott.

From my very first day with Marriott International, I was profoundly impressed by the company’s enduring culture. The orientation at JW Marriott Phuket was more than just an introduction; it was an immersive experience into the core values that would shape my career trajectory. This instilled in me a deep sense of pride and purpose, guiding both me and my teams toward achieving greater accomplishments. Being part of the Marriott family feels like entering an expansive universe of continuous learning, unwavering support, and global connectivity. With each step in my journey, I’ve felt increasingly empowered—not only to evolve as a leader but also to mentor, inspire, and uplift those around me. This profound sense of belonging is what truly defines the uniqueness of this community.

What keeps you going in your role every day?

Each day, I am driven by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact—uplifting team members, fostering a positive culture, and contributing to successful projects. I thrive on creating purposeful initiatives, from streamlining processes to encouraging collaboration, ensuring every detail operates seamlessly.

There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in watching people come together, united by a shared goal, and knowing that my efforts play a part in elevating guest experience that transcends time. Beyond work, my curiosity fuels continuous learning and improvement as I eagerly embrace fresh challenges. This harmonious blend of purpose and growth serves as a daily source of inspiration.

Proudest moment of your career so far?

One of the most touching compliments I’ve received came from a colleague who shared that my energy and smile had uplifted the entire technician team. I’m incredibly proud to have helped shift the team’s spirit—transforming it into one that’s enthusiastic, passionate, and genuinely joyful, greeting every guest and associate with warmth whenever possible.

That moment reminded me that true leadership isn’t just about delivering results—it’s about creating a positive environment and making a meaningful impact on the people we work with every day.

Any advice would you offer to women looking to accelerate in their career?

My advice to women aiming to accelerate their careers is to embrace both opportunities and challenges wholeheartedly. Stepping beyond your comfort zone often leads to the most significant personal and professional growth.

Reflecting on my own journey, when my General Manager, David Campbell, offered me the opportunity to oversee the housekeeping department, I recognized both the potential and challenges ahead. Assuming a dynamic operations role and managing multiple departments across disciplines was uncharted territory for me. Despite the initial hurdles, I embraced the challenge, adapted quickly, and discovered a rewarding balance. Support among peers is invaluable. Building a network of mentors and colleagues can provide guidance and encouragement as you navigate your career path. Never underestimate the power of self-confidence. Trust in your abilities, speak up, share your ideas, and advocate for yourself—you deserve a seat at the table. Remember, success is rarely a straight path. Stay resilient, remain curious, and commit to continuous learning at every stage of your journey.

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