I always wanted to work in tourism and initially, I worked in a campsite for a few seasons. But it was far from my family, you could only get short contracts and I wanted something more stable, so I tried hotels and I arrived here 6½ years ago. Before Accor I worked for another hotel in western France, but here I have found my current home.

I like the approach of the group, it is a big company, it is supportive and we free to arrange our days as we want and to manage our shifts. We all do the same kind of thing but we can decide how we want to do it.

I enjoy giving service and helping people. At first I wasn’t sure that working in a hotel was the way to do this but ensuring people have a good time at the hotel and memorable moments – that’s what I’m aiming for. I’m not taking care of them as a nurse does but in another way; I’m part of what makes their day good.

Hospitality is interesting because we meet people from all over the world and from different cultures; and that applies to my colleagues as well. Most of our guests are travelling on business and it interesting to meet those in senior positions and see that they are real people.

Being a Heartist® is important for teamwork. At Kikuoka we are a family and we look after each other. It helps us pay more attention to guests and to be aware of what they might want, even before they are! I enjoy personalising everything for them.

Every day is special; we are always doing our best for our guests and the small things are our highlights.

It is important to think about things as soon as possible when you are new to hospitality – even before guests would think of them, to surprise them. When you haven’t seen someone for a year and you remember them and what they like, that makes their stay special. It is rewarding for you and for them.