Promoting from Within

One of M&R’s core beliefs when it comes to its workforce is the importance of promoting from within whenever possible. Promoting from within demonstrates to ambitious staff members that they can build a career in hospitality at M&R, not just hold the job they were hired for, that they can add experience at other hotel brands, enriching their resume, without having to move on.

“Our associates have such a wealth of knowledge and experience – why go outside our existing ranks when an opportunity presents itself?” said Cleo Clarke, head of the People and Culture Team. Simply put, current associates know M&R’s way of doing things, our values, our priorities.”

Oscar Perez’s career path at M&R is an example. Recently promoted to assistant general manager at the Holiday Inn New York City – Times Square, he joined M&R in 2022 as director of operations at another Holiday Inn managed by M&R in Long Island City. Demonstrating his value, Oscar then was appointed director of operations, first at the dual-brand Residence Inn New York Queens and SpringHill Suites New York Queens in Long Island City, then to the DoubleTree by Hilton Midtown Fifth Avenue.

Now he has experience with IHG, Marriott and Hilton brands and systems.

Janilda Arias has her own successful career path. Joining M&R last year as director of housekeeping at the SpringHill Suites New York Midtown Manhattan/Park Avenue, she demonstrated her potential and was promoted to be director of operations at the TownePlace Suites New York Manhattan/Times Square. While both properties are part of the Marriott franchise system, the SpringHill is an all-suites brand, while the TownePlace specializes in long-term stays.

General Manager Felix Maldonado of the Holiday Inn New York City -Times Square, left, congratulates Oscar Perez on being named assistant general manager.
General Manager Felix Maldonado of the Holiday Inn New York City -Times Square, left, congratulates Oscar Perez on being named assistant general manager.
General Manager Steven Lamour of the TownePlace Suites New York Manhattan/Times Square welcomes his new director of operations, Janilda Arias.
General Manager Steven Lamour of the TownePlace Suites New York Manhattan/Times Square welcomes his new director of operations, Janilda Arias.