Employer Case Studies
Chicago Marriott Downtown
A worldwide company develops international growth through cultural exchange
From Autumn 2004
“Marriott has been a part of AIPT for several years, and the Chicago Marriott Downtown has been a big supporter of the program as soon as we could get into it,” said Andrew Moffett, director of event operations at Chicago Marriott Downtown. “It has given us an opportunity to identify qualified individuals for entry level positions in order to develop them into future leaders for our company.”
The Chicago Marriott Downtown has hosted numerous AIPT Train USA™ participants in a variety of fields, including front desk operations and all areas of food and beverage and event operations.
“We look at the individual’s strengths and then strategically place them in a position that they will be successful in,” Moffett said.
Moffett added that all participants enter into these positions and fulfill all management obligations. This includes training associates and holding them accountable, being part of business planning for the particular department, ensuring that the guests are satisfied, and much more.
Ross Barker, a resident of the United Kingdom who received a degree in hotel and catering management from Sheffield Hallam University, trained with the Chicago Marriott Downtown as an events service manager. During his training, Barker assisted with the daily operations of the convention floor and was a key player in the event operations “one team” vision.
“Having joined the Chicago Marriott Downtown, my goal was to gain insight into the American hospitality industry,” Barker said during his training experience. “AIPT’s international program has allowed me to work for one of the top hotel brands in the world. I couldn't have asked for a better learning experience than here at Marriott.”
Moffett said that Barker had been a tremendous asset to the Chicago Marriott Downtown.
“He works with all other departments to ensure that we are in line with the hotel vision and that our guest’s expectations are exceeded daily,” Moffett said.
“We feel they are very important to our industry,” he concluded. “Marriott is a worldwide company and therefore we allow all doors to remain open to any and all candidates who are looking for a solid career in the hospitality industry.”
