Laura Ybarra Banquet Server, Montage Beverly Hills good fortune of meeting Montage Beverly Hills’ leadership team during an event they were hosting at my former job and learned about the company through the hotel’s Banquet Director. He later reached out and invited me to join his team as an on-call banquet server. I have since grown with the department and property to take on my current role of a departmental trainer and Lead Banquet Server. What is your favorite part of being a banquet server? I love that every day is different which allows me to continue to grow and learn in my career. I also work with a dynamic team of associates and managers in my department who keep my job fun and interesting. What are the important skills and traits for a banquet server to have? A genuine sense of urgency is crucial to being successful as a banquet server more than anything. It is also important to always remember that the guest’s experience is the first priority. Lastly, a banquet server must be adaptable and able to think on their feet. 16 California Hotel & Lodging Association Spring 2016 What challenges have you encountered in your position? I like to think of any challenge I face as an opportunity. Currently, I would say that my biggest learning opportunity exists in my role as Banquet Department Trainer. Montage Beverly Hills attracts a very diverse, intelligent group of associates. Therefore, I tailor training to each individual’s background and learning style. What is a typical workday like for you? There is not a typical work day for a banquet server which is part of what makes my job so great and exciting. Our property has a wide range of beautiful event spaces. That, along with our location in Los Angeles, enables us to host remarkable events that we are fortunate to have here at the hotel. What advice do you have for those interested in entering the hospitality industry? Wear comfortable shoes! There is never a dull moment in hospitality, and one must be prepared! Hotelier Profile Tell us a little about yourself and background. I grew up in Fullerton, California and moved to LA in 2009 to begin my Masters Program in Art History at California State University, Los Angeles. I enjoy living here because I have a passion for food, being outdoors, the beach, and spending time at local art museums. I also love giving back to various philanthropic organizations. Our associate-driven volunteer program, Hearts of Montage, organizes a trip to Tijuana, Mexico every year in conjunction with the Corazon de Vida Foundation to support the orphans of Baja. I have volunteered with CDV since 2004 and am grateful that we have such giving associates. How long have you been a banquet server at the Montage Beverly Hills? I joined Montage Beverly Hills in the summer of 2010 in the Banquet Department. I had the
CH_LA Lodging News Spring 2016
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