M&R Celebrates its Employees

Mindful of how hard hotel staff members work every day, M&R Hotel Management encourages general managers to honor employees who demonstrate consistent, excellent performance.

“Everyone likes to be recognized for doing a good job,” said Cleo Clarke, M&R vice president of human resources. Not only do employees feel good being about being named Employee of the Month or Quarter, their fellow team members are motivated to emulate their successes.”

Front Office Supervisor Rocky Caban recently was named Employee of the Month at the Holiday Inn New York City – Times Square. “Rocky always is engaged in what he does,” said Felix Maldonado, general manager. “He takes time to mentor new members of the team and leads by example.” 

Rocky, a longtime associate,  relates effectively to guests who have questions or concerns, either at check-in or during their stay, Felix said, citing the number of times guests have cited him by name in their positive TripAdvisor reviews.

Chelsea Derrick, assistant executive housekeeper at the Hampton Inn Joplin, Missouri, was named Employee of the Month for her willingness to solve problems. “She’s hands-on and, at the same time, she’s always courteous and polite,” said General Manager Melissa Hill.

Sales Coordinator Axel Kelly, who has worked at the Fairfield Inn & Suites New York Manhattan/Central Park since it opened six years ago in roles including front office agent and night auditor, also recently was named Employee of the Month. “His breadth of knowledge and experience alone made Axel a logical choice,” said General Manager Yan Chung, who also cited his interpersonal skills, helpful dispositional and positive attitude.

General Manager Alan Chan, who oversees four hotels in Queens, including the Holiday Inn Express New York JFK Airport Area, Days Inn by Wyndham Jamaica/JFK Airport and Best Western JFK Airport Hotel conducts employee appreciation events regularly for the combined work forces of those hotels.

“We typically serve food and award prizes, including gift cards,” Alan said. “Even though three different brands are represented, the associates all tend to know each other. Plus, the best practices we’re looking to encourage such as going the extra mile, leading by example and being a team player are true for all three brands.”