We’ve recently caught up with Perry Chan, Front Office Manager at the Grand Hotel to talk about his career at SKYCITY, what makes his current role unique, what makes working with us enjoyable and more!
How long have you worked at SKYCITY?
I started my career in hotels at the Grand Hotel for the first two years and left to gain an insight as well as experience with other hotels around Auckland. I have since been back at SKYCITY for two and a half years. In total, I’ve been at SKYCITY for four and a half years.
What other roles have you held at SKYCITY?
Porter
Receptionist
Assistant Front Office Manager
Currently a Front Office Manager and I have been in this role for two and a half years
Tell us about your current role
My role at the Grand Hotel is very diverse and unique. I get to work alongside the housekeeping, concierge, the reservations teams, SKYCITY Hotel and other departments. Because of this, we are able to operate efficiently on the front line to ensure guests’ expectations are met or exceeded daily.
What do you enjoy most about your current role?
No two days are the same. There is always something happening at the Grand Hotel which makes coming to work enjoyable. I work with a fantastic team that support each other. I also get to work with other departments within SKYCITY, creating positive internal relationships.
I enjoy watching the team and individuals grow into their own bigger roles which they have worked towards. I enjoy the opportunity that my managers give to me to be able to empower the team.
What sorts of challenges do you encounter?
The challenges that I encounter is the uncertainty that may take place at the Hotel especially in high-pressure situations involving high-profile VIP guests. It makes it especially enjoyable when we are able to resolve any guest issues with unusual requirements/requests.
What do you enjoy about working at SKYCITY?
I enjoy the diversity at SKYCITY and being able to engage with staff from different departments. I also enjoy the training programs from Learning & Development as well as support from my managers.
What would you say to anyone considering joining your team or applying for a job like yours?
It is important to be able to adapt to a very busy environment and to have an ability to work under pressure to resolve any issues that comes your way. It is also important to be present for your team and to support your team on the front line.
Which of SKYCITY’s employee benefit(s) do you enjoy most?
Staff parking is very convenient at a really fantastic, discounted rate. Our in-house laundry facility is also great.
Is there anything about SKYCITY that makes it different to other work places?
We are the only hotels group in New Zealand that operate alongside a Casino, the Sky Tower and other specialised entertainment areas which increases our staff engagement with guests to provide really positive experiences. This comes with great challenges and expectations from our guests to ensure their experiences are maintained at a high level.
Where were you born/raised and how long have you lived in Auckland?
I was born in Hong Kong but I have been in Auckland for twenty-six years.
What do you like to get up to outside of work?
I enjoy watching sport, cooking, and spending time with my family and friends.
Thanks for sharing your story Perry! If his story inspired you to join our team at SKYCITY, check out our careers website to see all the job opportunities we currently offer and get your application in!
