Handling the Unexpected with Michelle Beattie

4 Apr 2025 in Alumni Profile, News

Michelle’s a Hospitality Management graduate from QRC Tai Tokerau who took a leap into the unknown and never looked back. She has quickly worked her way up through the ranks at Park Hyatt Auckland—starting as a banquet attendant and now an event planning coordinator. From running bars to planning weddings, Michelle has found her place in the fast-paced world of hospitality, and she’s loving every minute of it.

Why did you choose to study Hospitality Management?

Unsure of what I was going to do when I left school, I took a chance on hospitality with very little knowledge of what it involved. It’s such a people-focused industry, and that was something I was interested in. It has set me up with a wealth of experience and practical knowledge.

What was the most memorable part of your time at QRC?

The opportunities we were given were eye-opening and gave us an idea of the options out there. We were able to experience full tours of cruise ships, luxury lodges, how wines are created and more. We were taught the importance of being punctual and being diligent, which are two major qualities that help anyone in the hospitality industry succeed.

Where did you do your internship, what was your role there?

I started as a waitress at Novotel Rotorua. After a few months, I was working behind the bar and in the events team.

Tell us about your journey post QRC – Where have you worked, travelled, studied? What have you been doing since QRC?

When I got a job at Park Hyatt Auckland I joined as a banquet attendant and soon after became a team leader, then a supervisor. All that experience gave me the chance to take my skills behind the scenes to a position as an event planning coordinator.

Can you share a proud moment or significant achievement from your career?

Planning and executing my first wedding was an unforgettable experience. Handling the unexpected details that most people don’t think about and seeing everything come together flawlessly on the big day was incredibly rewarding.

What do you love most about working in the Hospitality industry?

The variety of people I meet will always be the thing I love most. There are people I never thought I would get the chance to meet and connect with, plus being able to learn from great managers above me.

What advice would you give prospective students considering QRC?

Stop the self-doubt, have confidence you can do it, and work hard!

Study Adventure Tourism Management or Hospita lity Management.