Rebecca Thorn’s enterprise into hospitality all began at a neighborhood fish and chip store which ultimately advanced into a powerful 17-year tenure with the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). From her New Zealand homeland’s Queenstown to the Australian cities of Adelaide and Melbourne, in addition to time within the UK and Fiji, she embraced various roles within the service and lodge trade. Now on the helm of Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya, which opened its doorways in August 2023, Rebecca displays on her outstanding experiences, showcasing her ardour for hospitality and the thrilling chapters that lie forward.
How have you ever personally grown or advanced by means of your varied roles and duties within the hospitality trade?
Through my 17-year journey with IHG and dealing throughout various cultures and nations, I really feel that I’ve grown immensely, shaping who I’m at present. In this job, you study in regards to the vital issues in life, all of our friends have a purpose to stick with us, and thru them, we in flip can expertise the highs and lows of life. Through our friends, we’re fortunate to witness a few of life’s best moments, from birthday and anniversary celebrations, weddings and household reunions, to the pure pleasure of individuals experiencing and discovering new locations for the primary time. Despite the occasional challenges, I’m grateful to really feel a part of the unbelievable moments. This publicity has grounded me and constructed up my resilience. I’ve turn into a peaceful particular person, thanks to those experiences. I proceed to develop, and the training by no means stops, which is one thing I actually recognize.
Photo: Kentaro Kumon
As one in every of only a few feminine normal managers in Tokyo’s lodge trade, how would you describe your management fashion and the ideas that information your choices?
My management fashion is primarily democratic — empathetic, collaborative and empowering. I imagine in involving the group as they carry all the things to life. I additionally adapt to numerous management kinds when wanted — strategic, visionary, pacesetting and transformational. While I’ve my pure fashion, I acknowledge the significance of adapting to people’ wants too. There are instances when making the ultimate determination is critical, and I don’t draw back from it. Leadership can generally be lonely and hard choices should be made, however on the finish of the day, I weigh the priorities and advantages, and try for stability.
In your profession, have you ever encountered any vital challenges, particularly as a girl in a management position? How did you navigate and overcome them?
In the early days, there was a scarcity of illustration for feminine leaders and I didn’t see individuals like me in high roles. It’s completely different now, however I nonetheless cope with being within the minority. Imposter syndrome was a wrestle however I’ve realized to beat it. People are sometimes stunned I’m a General Manager, and it occurs rather a lot. There are nonetheless challenges, like microaggressions and gender stereotypes however I see it as a chance to drive optimistic change. I be certain to attend trade occasions, even when I’m the one girl, to contribute to that change and help others.
What recommendation would you supply for aspiring ladies leaders within the hospitality area based mostly in your experiences?
Believe in your self; an amazing profession in hospitality is just not solely attainable however wonderful. Don’t hesitate to use for alternatives—even for those who don’t really feel totally prepared. Have confidence and put your self on the market! Diversify your ability set, keep true to your self and don’t attempt to be somebody you’re not.
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