M&R Honors Top 2024 Performers

M&R honored its top performers for 2024 at an awards ceremony in New York last month including Hotel of the Year, General Manager of the Year, Front-of-the-House Employee of the Year, Back-of-the-House Employee of the Year, Manager of the Year, Supervisor of the Year, Salesperson of the Year and Corporate Employee of the Year.

The event was hosted by M&R’s Amit Gandhi, principal & co-founder; Manish Patni, principal & co-founder; Brian McSherry, president & CEO; and Cleo Clarke, vice president, People & Culture department.

The following award recipients and teams were honored for going above and beyond in their roles and continuing to inspire excellence across the organization:

Hotel of the Year

The Holiday Inn Express Manhattan Midtown West was named Hotel of the Year for 2024. Under the leadership of acting General Manager Robert Solis and his dedicated team, the hotel achieved remarkable results, surpassing its budget and 2023 performance by over $1.3 million in revenue and $671,000 in gross operating profit.

With a RevPAR index of 116.7%, a RevPAR growth of 11.1%, QA scores at 96%, 216 days at over 95% fill efficiency and a strong average length of stay score of 89%, the hotel demonstrated superior performance.

The team’s ability to maintain low turnover, exceptional service and a positive attitude despite challenges such as construction noise and a limited breakfast room showcases their adaptability and teamwork. With strong guest satisfaction scores and a focus on creative solutions, the Holiday Inn Express set a standard for excellence.

General Manager of the Year

Yan Chung, general manager of the Fairfield New York Manhattan/Central, was named General Manager of the Year for her exceptional leadership skills and dedication. Yan, who has been with the company since 2013, was lauded for maintaining a positive and supportive work environment where collaboration, innovation and creativity thrive.

Her hands-on approach, combined with strategic oversight, has ensured the hotel’s operational efficiency, guest satisfaction and financial success. What truly sets Yan apart is her genuine commitment to mentoring and developing her team, recognition of individual strengths and ability to motivate her staff so that they continuously excel.

Whether solving complex problems or guiding her team through challenges, Yan was celebrated as an outstanding and effective leader whose clear vision and sharp decision-making skills always shine through. Her professionalism, team-oriented mindset and unwavering commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction earned her the admiration of colleagues and staff alike.

Front-of-the-House Employee of the Year

Marie Lauren Valere, guest service agent at the Hilton Garden Inn New York Times Square South, was named Front-of-the-House Employee of the Year. During her seven years of service, Marie was applauded for consistently going above and beyond to serve guests and colleagues.

Recognized for her infectious energy, impeccable professionalism and perfect attendance, Marie also is a top performer in Hilton Honors enrollments, consistently signing up 7–10 guests daily. Notably, she is the hotel’s most decorated associate in guest reviews, averaging three mentions weekly.

Marie’s ability to engage with guests, especially French-speaking visitors, reflects her commitment to excellence. Her dedication to teamwork, willingness to assist wherever needed and ability to excel in multiple roles, make her a true asset to the Hilton Garden Inn team.

Back-of-the-House Employee of the Year

Rajnee Rampersaud, housekeeper at the Best Western JFK Airport Hotel, was named Back-of-the-House Employee of the Year for exceptional performance and contributions to her department. In her two years with M&R, Rajnee has consistently exceeded expectations and demonstrated an outstanding work ethic.

She is known for her punctuality, attention to detail and her consistent ability to meet and surpass her daily goals. Rajnee’s commitment to providing excellent service to her colleagues and guests makes her an invaluable member of the team and a role model for others.

Supervisor of the Year

Luz Rodriguez, housekeeping supervisor at the Brookville Hotel at JFK, was named Supervisor of the Year. Her leadership was recognized as exceptional since her promotion to supervisor in January 2024.

Luz, who has been with the company since 2017, earned recognition for her management of a key inspection and ability to run a highly efficient department. She has earned the respect of her team through her organizational skills, dedication and hands-on approach.

Luz’s leadership was credited with making a lasting positive impact on the hotel through her ability to continually improve operations, work ethic and ability to inspire and motivate others.

Manager of the Year

Andy Persaud, chief engineer at the Fairfield New York Manhattan/Central Park, was named Manager of the Year. Since joining M&R in 2018, Andy has risen through the ranks thanks to his dedication, strategic vision, technical expertise and exceptional leadership.

During a severe snowstorm, he ensured hotel systems operated effectively despite power and service disruptions. He is known for his hands-on approach, overseeing cost-saving projects such as lobby tile replacements and HVAC installations, while fostering a culture of team development.

Andy’s leadership extends beyond his own team, serving on a task force to support other M&R hotels while ensuring timely inspections and compliance with company standards. His problem-solving abilities, kindness and commitment to excellence were cited for making him an outstanding leader.

Salesperson of the Year

Chevelle Campbell, director of sales at Hilton Garden Inn New York Times Square South, was named Salesperson of the Year for her unwavering commitment to client service and business development.

Chevelle, who has been with the company since 2019, was praised for consistently going above and beyond to provide exceptional service to groups, thus encouraging repeat business. She takes a hands-on approach, personally greeting each group upon arrival and ensuring that all their needs are met throughout their stay.

Chevelle is known for being among the first to arrive at the office and the last to leave, ensuring no lead is overlooked. Her dedication, work ethic and professionalism were cited for making her an invaluable member of the sales team.

Corporate Employee of the Year

Calvin McBurrows, M&R’s payroll manager for the past five years, was named Corporate Employee of the Year for his exceptional dedication and contributions.

Calvin was applauded for processing the corporate payroll accurately and on time. Beyond his core responsibilities, Calvin has supported the People & Culture team and trained new general managers on payroll systems, facilitating smooth transitions and operational efficiency.

Calvin’s professionalism, attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile to support the company’s operations have made him a valued and respected member of the corporate team.