Each month we are talking to different leaders that attended Leading Within Our Culture (LWOC). LWOC is a new leader orientation that enables leaders to better understand the different business functions that interact together to create a memorable customer experience. Leaders that attend also have the opportunity to foster professional relationships by networking with leaders in different departments.
This month we are highlighting two expectational leaders, Mike and Kiarra, that attended LWOC in 2022. They offer advice to new leaders starting with the company and reflect on their time at LWOC as new leaders with HICV.
Meet Mike Wilkinson – Capital Markets Senior Manager
We asked Mike what his biggest takeaway was from LWOC and he had this to say:
My biggest takeaway from LWOC is that every role in this company matters. Those working at the resort are the face of this company and keep our owners coming back year after year. Finance teams track our cash and expenses and ensure we have enough cash to fund daily operations and growth strategies. Marketing is vital to make an impression on potential owners before they even step foot on property. Without every single team member, HICV wouldn’t be the success that it is today.
What is one piece of advice you would offer new leaders starting with HICV?
I would advise 2 things: 1) Always keep an open mind. Just because you’ve started in a leadership role doesn’t mean you know everything, and a lot of innovative ideas come from younger talent; and 2) Network as much as possible. You never know what value you can offer others and what value they can offer you.
Meet Kiarra Burleson — Guest Service Manager
We asked Kiarra what her biggest takeaway was from LWOC and she had this to say:
There are so many opportunities within Holiday Inn Club Vacations, and you never know where your calling will be. It’s also hugely beneficial to be able to take a step back and check the big picture. Last but not least, always question everything. There is no efficiency without new ideas and innovation.
What is one piece of advice you would offer new leaders starting with HICV?
Question everything, always try to improve every single day, and don’t forget where you started.
We hope you enjoyed the inaugural issue of “Leaders Within Our Culture”. Be on the lookout for next month’s issue, as we highlight other great leaders, like Mike and Kiarra.
