Natalie Jack, originally from Auckland, graduated from QRC with a Hospitality Management Diploma 10 years ago. Today, she works as an Operations Specialist for a global tour operator, building a successful hospitality career that has taken her around the world.
After starting out as a Food and Beverage Attendant in Queenstown, Natalie progressed into Event Management and Event Sales before stepping into her current role. Her hospitality diploma from QRC gave her the skills and confidence to live and work in London, Barcelona, and beyond.
Natalie says choosing to study something she truly enjoyed has opened doors to an exciting international career.
Why did you choose to study Hospitality Management?
- I always wanted to study something that I knew I would enjoy and lead me into a career that I would love. Hospitality seemed like a great option that would allow me to travel – I have been lucky enough to travel a lot. I had a strong interest in event management and liked I could choose that as an elective at QRC.
What was the most memorable part of your time at QRC?
- I loved my shift placements at St Mortiz, making new friends and of course living in the paradise that is Queenstown.
Where did you complete your internship?
- I completed my internship at the Pullman Hotel in Auckland. My role was a guest services officer on the Front Desk. I learnt a lot about customer service and the challenges that come with that. I also learnt that front desk was not the area for me – and that’s okay!
Tell us about your journey post QRC – Where have you worked, travelled, studied? What have you been doing since QRC?
- During QRC I completed some of my front of house shifts at Hotel St Moritz in Lombardi restaurant. I was offered a part-time job here alongside my studies before transitioning to full-time after completing my diploma. I then moved to Auckland and started my role as Event Manager at Urban Gourmet, which has been my favourite job so far. I am passionate about event planning; I learnt so much during my time here and got to plan and collaborate on some amazing events.
- After this I moved to Europe and used London as a base while I travelled. The good thing about hospitality is you can get a job anywhere. I joined a hospitality agency where you could select the events you wanted to work at. This meant I worked in the boxes at the O2 arena and other stadiums where I could experience concerts while at work, sporting events such as tennis and cricket, celebrity spot and have some pretty cool experiences – all while I was travelling every other week around Europe.
Where are you working now?
- I am currently working as an Operations Specialist in Barcelona at Avanti Destinations, an American Global Tour Operator. I am part of the Confirmations Team, working with suppliers in different countries, ensuring all of our client’s trips go to plan.
- Last year I worked in the US for a week and then got to tour around Italy for a week to inspect hotels. I really enjoy this role because even though it is completely different to event management, the focus on planning and organisation is very similar. Plus, I get to travel!
Can you share a proud moment or significant achievement from your career?
- My proudest moments are the successful events I managed while working at Urban Gourmet – including a corporate dinner event for 300 pax. Seeing an event come to life that I had planned from start to finish and having it all go to plan is definitely a proud feeling.
How did QRC prepare you for the challenges of your career?
- QRC really prepares you for facing challenges in professional environments and how to handle them. The knowledge you learn from all the different subjects definitely helps in whichever role you end up in.
What do you love most about working in the Hospitality industry?
- I love that every day is different. It keeps life interesting!
What excites you about the future of Hospitality?
- I think the fact it is always growing, the amazing properties that are being developed around the world and the endless opportunities.
Do you have any advice for prospective students considering QRC?
- The knowledge I developed while studying at QRC was invaluable. My advice is, if you have a passion for the industry of hospitality and tourism then QRC is the place to be. Give it your all and you will see the doors that will open for you.
Learn more about our Adventure Tourism Management and Hospitality Management Diplomas.
