Kick – Sales Trainee
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I’m Kick van Wijngaarden, 17 years old and currently the sales intern at the hotel: Mövenpick Amsterdam City Centre. I study hospitality management at the Hogeschool Tio in Amsterdam and was searching for an internship for 4 months when I came across the sales internship at the Mövenpick. In my past job I already worked in sales so it was a no brainer for me when I saw the vacancy.
I always enjoyed selling people stuff even when I was really young and I’m really happy that I can keep on developing this skill at the Mövenpick. I learn something new almost every other day and I really enjoy working here.
The team is great with a lot of young people from all over the world! I think that is key to success in this team. The hotel itself is also really beautiful and a nice working environment. I’m looking forward to keep on working here and maybe see you as my new colleague!
Celine – Cluster HR Manager
”The only way to do GREAT work is to LOVE what you do.”
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I knew pretty quickly that I wanted to work in hospitality when I was younger. During my studies, I started as a Front Office employee, and it was the first moment that I experienced how GREAT working in a hotel can be.
I wanted to enhance my knowledge on a management level and started the bachelor of Tourism Management. I was sure I still wanted to continue working in a hotel but had no idea which direction or department.
And then…
In 2019, I started my Mövenpick journey as a Human Resources intern, where I developed my LOVE for HR. One of the reasons is that I enjoy working with employees, make sure that they feel comfortable on the work floor, and provide them with good support and service to put a smile on their faces.
Mövenpick has given me the opportunity to develop and challenge myself on a personal and professional level to become Cluster HR manger for the three Mövenpick hotels.
Ekaterina –Training & Development Manager
“Love from the first sight.”
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Having almost 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, I was looking for a new challenge where innovation and creativity is a core of a company. I came across the Movenpick brand with its beautiful story of a man who had a vision – Ueli Prager – the founder of the Movenpick. I was excited to become a part of it. But stepping first time in the hotel, I felt that there’s something even more important than the story – how the company values its team.
I saw sincerely happy people, doing what that love to do, helping each other and commiting to the success. I’ve been here for a year, and I feel every day that I did a right choice.
Yassine – Account Manager
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My name is Yassine, born and raised in Morocco, a father of two lovely kids; a sweet girl and a naughty toddler. I worked in Africa, Middle East & and now in Europe. I learned a lot from international hub and almost worked with all nationalities on this mother earth “probably I exaggerated a bit but if I start counting then almost all nationalities”.
I joined Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre 6 months ago and enjoy working with such a great, young team. I feel like I’m part of the family and really value the trust and respect. I’m still eager to learn and grow in this industry as it’s a pillar for every country’s economy
Dane – Operations Manager
“The leaders we meet along our way shape the person we will be in the years to come.”
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“When I started Hospitality Management at NHL Stenden, I didn’t think I’d spend the next 10 years in hospitality. It is truly a fantastic industry; it gives many opportunities – it not only guides you towards what you want to do but also what you want to achieve in your professional life. It was a compass that helped me get my bearings.
I started initially working in the catering industry, as an events party manager, and I fell a love – I couldn’t believe at the time that I would ever choose something different (like working in a hotel). Yet, I took a step into the unknown, moved abroad to the United Arab Emirates and worked for a hotel chain in the position of Restaurant Manager. After 3.5 years, in 2016, I ventured homewards and there was the opportunity for me as Food & Beverage Manager at Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre. I’m very grateful for the opportunities the hotel has provided me thus far, it allowed me to develop myself as hospitality professional in such a broad and dynamic industry.
From December, 2022, I’m now in the position as Operations Manager whereas my General Manager gives me great freedom and the opportunity to touch all areas of the hotel’s activity. The leaders we meet along our way shape the person we will be in the years to come. It is very important to meet someone in our life who believes that, given opportunities, we can become part of the new generation of hoteliers.”
Damian – Group Coordinator
“Nothing you wear is more important than your smile.”
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Hey, I’m Damian Veldman, and I’m currently working as a group coordinator at Movenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre. I grew up in a beautiful place called Delfzijl, located in Groningen, The Netherlands. Nature and water were all around me, which has given me a great peace of mind and the ability to think realistically without losing sight of my dreams and ambitions.
I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do for work, but I knew that I loved to see people smile. Hospitality seemed like the perfect industry to combine actively working with putting smiles on people’s faces! During hospitality school, I had the opportunity to experience different segments and departments within the industry.
After covid, I went back to studying and strongly believed Mövenpick would be a great match for me. I started a 10-month placement within the Conference & Events department and was offered a position as a group coordinator after that.
I’ve been working as a group coordinator for the past two months, and I recently celebrated my one-year anniversary with Movenpick Hotels. I wouldn’t be surprised if there are many more to come because I love the team’s international aspect. Our department alone has around 10 different nationalities, which makes work so interesting as I get to learn and understand a lot from other cultures all over the world
Hans – Chef Kok
“How you experience it is how you remember it.”
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Born in Bangkok because my father was stationed in Thailand. Because I grew up where I was introduced to the food culture of Southeast Asia at an early age.
My cooking style is varied. The classic French techniques form the basis.
Cooking is not difficult, keep it fresh and simple and let the ingredients speak for themselves. Above all, food should be tasty and delicious. Also taste and enjoy our cocktails and wines in our hotel. These are very good.
Chaline – Conference & Events Supervisor
”Every day I learn more and more from all sorts of different cultures without leaving this tiny little ‘kikkerlandje’ ”
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After studying as much as I could for many years in a very intercultural environment and trying to get a full picture of what I wanted for myself in the future, I finally found my perfect fit. After working in events catering for many years, I came across one of the largest congress venues in Amsterdam; IJvenues.
Ever since working for IJvenues as C&E Executive for Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre, I have been able to grow tremendously with the trust and responsibilities given to us by our superiors, eventually allowing me to grow to C&E Supervisor in the span of 8 months. Working with all types of different clients & colleagues allowed me to return to the intercultural environment I loved so much during my studies. The open and warm atmosphere amongst colleagues is a rarity which I’m able to enjoy every day.
My goal was always to get a job where I would walk in with a smile, feel at home, and where every day is a challenge. I can confidently say that I’ve found what I was looking for and more.
Ana Maria – Conference & Events Executive
”Get out of your comfort zone, it will surprise you what it can get you!”
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I remember my first day at the interview for a trainee position at the Movenpick Hotel last September. I applied for a marketing job initially, but based on the conversation we had as me being creative and wanting to do other things than what I am used with, they offered me a position of Corporate Groups Coordinator in the Sales Department.
Being a bit indecisive about a position I had no experience in, still, I was impressed by how they approached me, saying that they strongly believe that they should be a good pick for me, not only me for them. Only 2 months in, and I already was the first one in the office confirming the most businesses. 4 months later, I got offered an official contract to continue, having enough flexibility to finish my studies.
Having to work for such a prestigious brand, with such a diverse cultural environment (colleagues & clients), made me more eager and determined to deliver the best service to the guests and also create a comfortable and fun atmosphere with the others from the office. I am glad I had and still have the opportunity to develop myself as a professional in the tourism world.
Jane – Reservations Supervisor
“Life is short, so BREAK your silly egos, FORGIVE quickly, BELIEVE slowly, LOVE truly, LAUGH loudly, and never avoid anything that makes you SMILE.”
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These wise words have been my driving force throughout my career in the hospitality industry. Growing up in San Teodoro, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines, I dreamed of experiencing everything the world had to offer.
When I arrived in Amsterdam, the opportunity to work in the Hospitality Management Industry was like a dream come true. Though my degree was in Nutrition and Dietetics, I was determined to excel in my new role. Starting as an F&B shift leader, I worked my way up to be in charge of Guest Relations team and then head of the Reservations Department.
I’ve had the privilege of attending VIPs, dealing with guest complaints, and being an ambassador for my company. Though challenging, I love assisting guests and making sure they feel special and well taken care of.
Now, as the leader of my own team, I aim to provide a great, happy working environment for my colleagues and 100% satisfaction for our guests. In the future, I hope to continue learning and growing, with the ultimate goal of opening my own hotel and restaurant on my home island or in Amsterdam.
This venture would create jobs and opportunities for children in my community to study and learn about the hospitality industry. The hospitality industry is all about creating unforgettable moments for guests, and I’m passionate about making those moments happen. I’m committed to making every guest feel valued and cared for.
Of course, this industry comes with challenges. From navigating complex reservation systems to dealing with difficult guests, obstacles are always present. However, flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are key to success.
My goal is to leave a positive impact on every guest I encounter and to inspire others to pursue their dreams. With hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible in this exciting and dynamic industry.”
Brigite – Regional Revenue Manager
“10 years ago I packed 2 suitcases, kissed my family goodbye, and moved to Amsterdam, a city where the unpredictable happens on a daily basis, and I loved it!!”
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My first full time job was in housekeeping. A year later I worked as a waitress and became a F&B supervisor. Ready for a change, I moved to the Front Desk couple years after. However, I still hadn’t found my place …
In 2019 I started my journey with Movenpick as a Front Office supervisor and within 1 year I got the chance to move to the revenue department as a coordinator. Today I am a Regional Revenue Manager helping the teams of several hotels in The Netherlands and Germany to implement the best strategy for success.
Mövenpick has given me the opportunity to challenge myself and my skills on enormous projects, and taught me that no problem is too big, and no opportunity is too small…’’
Beau – Receptionist
“Little things in life are where I find real and true joy.”
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“As a student of management travel and hospitality in Amersfoort, I began my internship journey at the Movenpick City Centre in Amsterdam when I was just 21 years old. During this internship, I discovered the happiness and enthusiasm that comes with serving guests firsthand, which gave me a positive energy boost.
Being a native of Amsterdam, I have always enjoyed sharing the beauty of our country with visitors through exquisite restaurants and tours, enabling them to experience the best that we have to offer.
This experience helped me realize my passion for the hospitality industry, especially when working with people from diverse cultures. My desire to be helpful, kind, and accommodating to create unforgettable experiences for our guests motivated me to seek further knowledge in the field of hospitality. Consequently, I began my career as a receptionist.
Entony – Rooms Division Manager
“If you do what you love, you will not work a single day in your life”
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My journey started with Mövenpick when I got an opportunity to leave my country to join the company as Front Office manager, I was looking to work for a company where I am able to learn and grow and Mövenpick has Vision & values that contribute to the success of the company and their employees. Mövenpick has given me the opportunity to enhance my knowledge within the hospitality industry and the liberty to embrace my culture and believes.
I have been with Mövenpick for almost 2 years and I can defiantly say that I have made the right choice to join the company, as being far from my country I have find a family at work that makes it more pleasant to come to work and give my best every day.
Saad – Sales Manager
“Come and share the adventure with us!”
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Being a very sociable person and enjoying being of service to others, the choice of hospitality was obvious to me. Today, with my decade of experience in hotels and events as in Morocco as internationally, Mövenpick Hotel was for me the logical and most promising continuation in the Netherlands.
More than a hotel or a team of colleagues, here I found a family, stability, and a career plan. Are you international oriented? Here is the place to join.
