A Place to Succeed
Jefferson Martin, director of rooms, and Zachary Martin, assistant general manager, join Malcolm in holding leadership positions at this luxury hotel in the heart of Bourbon Street.
With opportunities to advance in hospitality, these three men showcase how diversity at all levels can help make a hotel shine. From meeting guests traveling around the world to enjoying flexible schedules and family-oriented work environments, the three Martins praise the hotel industry for helping them thrive professionally.
“There are so many people who started in the kitchen and worked their way up,” Jefferson said. “You can start anywhere, but you control your own destiny.”
“I love the challenges we face,” Zachary said. “At the end of the day, I want to put a smile on everyone’s face. Every individual who works for me wants to elevate. My job as a leader is to promote them.”
Touting the industry’s unique perks and benefits, Jefferson notes that many of his colleagues began their hotel careers in entry-level positions, quickly receiving promotions.
“There are so many people who started in the kitchen and worked their way up,” Jefferson said. “You can start anywhere, but you control your own destiny.”
As a director, Jefferson advises younger employees on how to develop in their careers. He says that the hotel industry provides the tools necessary for success through hard work and service-oriented mindsets.
“I try to be a mentor and a role model, not just to African Americans but to all minorities,” Jefferson said. “We encourage people to come with their own ideas.”
From Baton Rouge, Malcolm began working as a valet until his general manager saw more significant potential in his career path.
“The GM came to me and said, ‘I don’t want you working in valet anymore. I need you,’” Malcolm said. “I went from a front desk agent to a night auditor, to rooms manager to an assistant director. And that’s all within ten years.”
The three Martins agree that hotels such as Royal Sonesta celebrate diversity and look for opportunities to advance their employees.
“The sky’s the limit,” Malcolm said. “I had no idea that I was going to be in [the hotel industry]. It found me.”