These interviews are part of a series that highlights new hires within the industry. Have you recently started a new role or do you know someone who has? Submit your ideas to Megan Gosch.
Laurens Zieren has been appointed general manager of Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood, Curio Collection by Hilton.
What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
Everything! I’ve done a bit of everything throughout my 21 years in the industry, but in this new role I’m excited about the opportunity to create a meaningful experience for my team members and a memorable experience for guests.
How have your past experiences prepared you for this role?
At one point, I managed a luxury hotel in Paris which gave me an understanding of properties with that atmosphere. I also managed the New York Hilton with 2,000 rooms and over 150,000 square feet of meeting space and was big in conference business, so this new location will likely be a combination of those two. The Hollywood Hilton is such a beautiful and luxurious property and also has a large number of suites and a big meeting draw, so it will be an interesting mix of some of the things I have done before.
How did you get into the industry?
It’s funny, really. My dad was a banker and had this huge oak desk that he would sit behind and sign papers and make calls. I knew from a young age that I wanted to work with my customers in person and I found the idea of wearing ties and suits to be charming and that environment was very appealing to me.
What are you hoping to achieve in your new position?
Well, of course, the goal is always to run a successful hotel! I’m looking forward to being able to set and create a culture among my team that is service driven. This is such a culture-driven industry and I believe that it’s important to create a positive and rewarding environment for team members so that vibe will then radiate out to our visitors.
What do you enjoy most about the industry?
Travelling! With this job I have been able to manage hotels and live in Dublin, Paris, Belgium, New York, Chicago and now Florida, so that has been really fun. Guests travel to these sought after destinations and stay for a few days but I have the privilege to live in the locations that everyone wants to visit! I’m constantly meeting new people in this job and at this point with so many years in the industry I feel that I have the ability to be a role model and help to prepare those who are younger for what is to come.
