Since graduating with a Diploma in Hospitality Management from QRC, Brad Waugh’s career journey has been more rewarding than he ever imagined.
From building his skills at Peppers Bluewater to discovering his passion for hotel operations in Australia, he has embraced opportunities across iconic properties and major projects.
Now General Manager at Mantra Sierra Grand on the Gold Coast, Brad reflects on his career and shares advice for current students considering a future in the industry.
Why did you choose to study Hospitality Management?
- After finishing school, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do. I had always been drawn to tourism and travel, so I decided to take a chance on the hospitality industry and I’m glad I did. It turned out to be my passion, especially in creating memorable experiences for others.
Where did you complete your internship, what was your role there?
- I completed my internship across two properties under Mantra Group/Accor at Peppers Clearwater in Christchurch & Peppers Bluewater in Lake Tekapo as a Guest Service Agent. One of the biggest takeaways from my internship was the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, no matter the situation or challenge. I also learned to embrace every opportunity that comes my way as you never know where it might lead!
Tell us about your journey post QRC – Where have you worked, travelled, studied? What have you been doing since QRC?
Since graduating from QRC, my journey has been more rewarding than I could have imagined. I initially returned to Peppers Bluewater, where I had the opportunity to take on new roles to further broaden my skills. In 2017 I made the move across the ditch to Australia, joining the Accor Corporate Office in the Gold Coast as a Revenue Manager. However, in 2019 I realised that my passion lay in operations rather than the corporate side and I transitioned back into our flagship property on the Gold Coast, Peppers Soul. Over the past six years, I’ve had the chance to work across several of our Strata Hotels, take on secondments at some amazing properties around Australia, and contribute to a number of company-wide rollouts of new systems and processes.
Where are you working now?
- I have recently moved into the role of General Manager at Mantra Sierra Grand in the Gold Coast!
Can you share a proud moment or significant achievement from your career?
- A proud moment in my career was being nominated and attending as a Finalist for Front Office Associate of the Year at the HM Awards in 2022. It was an incredible experience and a highlight I’m truly grateful for.
What do you love most about working in the Hospitality industry?
- While COVID-19 undoubtedly impacted the hospitality industry and the road to recovery has been long, the future is incredibly bright. The hotel industry offers endless opportunities to travel and explore some of the world’s most remarkable destinations while enjoying a career where no two days are ever the same. The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on someone’s day whether it’s through exceptional service or genuine connection is what makes hospitality such a deeply rewarding industry for me.
What advice would you give current QRC students?
- My advice would be to dive in with an open mind and a positive attitude. Have confidence in yourself and always say YES! You never know where it might lead. Sometimes the most unexpected path turns out to be the most rewarding. Hospitality and tourism are dynamic industries full of exciting possibilities, so be adaptable, stay curious, and enjoy the journey!
Learn more about our Adventure Tourism Management and Hospitality Management Diplomas.
