Can you tell us about yourself and your experience in the in the hospitality industry?

In 1996, I graduated from hotel school in Zwolle and completed my first internship with Golden Tulip, a prominent Dutch hotel brand at the time, followed by a second internship with them. I quickly advanced, becoming a Front Office Manager at the Barbizon Centre, now NH Leidseplein, at that time a five-star hotel. When NH acquired Golden Tulip, I was tasked with helping integrate the two brands, training the Front Office teams of 56 hotels across the Netherlands and Belgium.

Later, I trained staff in Austria, Germany and Switzerland after NH acquired the Astron Hotel Group. After training all the front office staff, I left the company after six or seven years and started my own bagel and catering shop, which I ran for 12 years.

However, I eventually realized I needed investors to grow, but after a partnership fell through, I sold the business just before the pandemic. I then joined LBG Hotels, managing a property at Amsterdam's World Trade Centre for four or five years. Eventually, I found the Monet Garden Hotel, fell in love with the product, the staff, and the owners, who are deeply committed to maintaining the property, always fixing issues and investing in upkeep. This dedication to quality and maintenance is rare, and it's one of the reasons I’m so happy here.

What made you choose hospitality in the first place?

What I enjoy most about being a hotel manager is that every day is different. I'm not someone who can sit in an office for eight hours; I love being hands-on, whether it's in the rooms or assisting with maintenance.

I find it rewarding to solve both small issues and long-term challenges. It's the variety and problem-solving aspect that really excites me about this job.

What does great customer experience look like at Garden Monet Hotel and what makes it unique?

We offer a sit-down check-in, which typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. While our guests are mostly 50+, with many coming for river or ocean cruises, we make sure they feel at home. During check-in, we offer a complimentary welcome drink and walk them through the city on a map, answering any questions they might have. It’s all about personalised hospitality, and it’s something that still works for us.

Even though we are part of a hotel group that has some hotels with self-check-in kiosks, I strongly believe that’s not for us. I’d prefer not to have them here because we’re focused on ensuring everything is taken care of for our guests.

The technology is there, but many of our guests appreciate the personal touch. While some may prefer technology, we know our niche and believe in delivering that personal service, which works well for us.

What is the greatest piece of business advice you have received?

The best business advice I’ve ever received is to always keep the bigger goal in focus. While you may need to adapt or adjust along the way, it’s important not to lose sight of that ultimate objective.

What is your approach to recruitment and retention of staff in the hotel?

Referrals are the best way to recruit staff, and currently, about 30% of our reception team were referred by friends or acquaintances. Retaining staff is about offering growth opportunities—when people feel valued and see investment in their development, they’re more likely to stay.

After COVID, people value their free time more and understand their worth better, so flexibility is key. Many of our team members are international students who balance work and studies, often working two to three days a week, which keeps them energized and engaged. It’s easier to maintain enthusiasm with a lighter schedule compared to working five days straight.

What are the major opportunities and challenges in the hotel market at the moment?

Tourism in Amsterdam is driven heavily by river and ocean cruise travellers, though ocean cruises have a significant environmental impact. While people will always want to travel, there's a balance to strike. Many Amsterdam residents critical of tourism forget they enjoy traveling too.

The City Council’s approach, like raising city taxes and promoting "stay away" campaigns, poses challenges for the local hotel industry. On top of that, labour shortages and rising property costs make it increasingly difficult to run a profitable hotel.

Do you attend the Independent Hotel Show Amsterdam?

Yes! What I really enjoy is the networking opportunities at IHS and other events, where I get to meet former and future colleagues. It’s a big part of the experience for me. It’s not just about networking with peers but also getting inspired by new products and ideas.

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We are looking forward to bringing the community together again at Independent Hotel Show Amsterdam 2025, secure your ticket here. Hoteliers and designers can attend for free, please get in touch at independenthotelshow@montgomerygroup.com to secure your free code.