In the High Flyers spotlight this week is Marian McGreevy, human resources manager at Belfast's five-star Fitzwilliam Hotel
What was your first job?
I started when I was 16 as a kitchen porter in Ruby Tuesdays Restaurant, Stranmillis. It was great fun as my circle of friends all worked here too. Although I was based behind the scenes, that was my first taste of working in hospitality and I loved it. Little did I know then that I would end up working in a five-star hotel in Belfast as part of the management team!
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the work ethic that was instilled in me by my daddy. He always encouraged me to do my best and I wanted to make him proud. I am self-motivated and I like to set goals and work toward them. I was the only child of nine that went to university, so this was something I was proud of. I'm thankful to everyone who gave me opportunities and believed in me; the HR manager who selected me for placement and the GM who selected me for my current role.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I am a very loyal person and I have a good sense of humour. I am also caring, empathic and genuine. I can be cautious and don’t like taking too many risks. This is definitely a trait from my mummy – she always taught me to ‘look before you leap’. In a business environment I am calm, assertive, organised and professional.
Who do you look up to in business?
I have to confess that I do love Lord Sugar and watching The Apprentice! I enjoy watching all the candidates working together – or against each other - on the tasks. In business my admiration (regardless of level or job title) is for people who care about the job they are doing, are hard working, passionate, respectful and friendly. A course director I was taught by at Queens was very inspirational to me.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
You should take time to get to know people, build relationships and take a genuine interest in others. Respect is so important too. You should do your job, do it well, and have respect for people you work with as you will get it in return. You should also show appreciation for the work that has been done and never take people for granted. I am also a great believer in honesty and feedback – being open, setting clear expectations, and giving regular feedback.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
Attracting more hospitality talent to live and work here.
What website or app could you not do without?
My childcare provider uses ‘my nursery pal’. This allows me to quickly check in and view my daughter’s day, what she’s been up to and view some pictures. This gives me great peace of mind to be able to check in during the day.
What was the last book you read?
‘After the End’ by Clare Mackintosh. It was a bit emotional and quite sad. I like to read in the evening as it helps me to switch off.
What car do you drive?
VW CC – and I have had no luck since buying it! Previously I had an Audi A3 which was a great car and I will change back someday soon.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I am one of nine children. There are two sets of twins within my siblings so we are all very close.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
As a busy working mummy it is hard to get spare time to myself, in between work and family commitments! I used to love going to the gym and am planning a comeback one of these days! Aside from that I love watching beauty and hairdressing tutorials. I love being pampered whenever and wherever possible! I really enjoy spa treatments and having my eye lashes done. I also enjoy going for a meal with friends and family, so I enjoy sampling the menu in the restaurant at the Fitzwilliam.
