Petrut Gheorghita
BA (Hons) International Hospitality Business Management, 2018
About me
- Job title and company: Business Development Manager @ HOSPLACE Hotel Asset Management | JASILL Accounting & Business
- Studied: BA (Hons) International Hospitality Business Management, 2018
ABOUT MY CAREER
I chose to study at Manchester Met in the UK through a joint programme with the American Hotel Academy in Romania. It was a great opportunity for me to study in Brasov, Romania and follow the academic programme of Manchester Met. Additionally, studying in Romania was financially beneficial, making it easier for me to pursue my education. This combination of location and programme allowed me to gain an international perspective while managing my finances effectively.
During my studies, I had the opportunity to pursue two placements. The first placement was as a Kitchen Manager Trainee in southern France, and the second placement was as a Business Development Trainee in Romania. These placements were highly valuable for me as they allowed me to gain international work experience and interact with people from different cultures.
Undertaking these placements was of great importance to me. Firstly, they provided me with practical exposure to the hospitality industry, allowing me to apply the knowledge and skills I gained during my studies in real-world scenarios. Secondly, working in different countries gave me a broader perspective and increased my cultural awareness. It allowed me to understand the diverse needs and preferences of both local and international guests, preparing me for a global career.
Additionally, placements offered the opportunity to build professional networks, establish relationships with industry experts, and gain references that could prove beneficial in future job searches. The practical skills, industry insights, and international exposure gained through these placements have been instrumental in shaping my career and preparing me for the dynamic and multicultural hospitality industry.
After graduating, I had the exciting opportunity to start my career as a bar manager at Blaxy Premium Resort & Hotel, a prestigious 4-star resort situated on the beautiful shores of the Black Sea. Through a combination of networking, a compelling application, and an impressive interview, I was able to demonstrate my skills and qualifications, ultimately securing the position.
In my role as a bar manager, I dedicated myself to providing exceptional service, managing a team of talented individuals, and ensuring a delightful experience for our guests. My passion for the hospitality industry and commitment to delivering excellence allowed me to thrive in this position.
Recognising my hard work and dedication, the management at Blaxy Premium Resort & Hotel soon promoted me to the position of Sales Director. This new role presented exciting challenges and responsibilities, as I was entrusted with driving sales, developing innovative strategies, and forging strong partnerships to further elevate the resort’s success.
Through my journey from bar manager to Sales Director, I had the privilege of contributing to the growth and reputation of Blaxy Premium Resort & Hotel. It was a rewarding experience that allowed me to combine my skills, passion, and ambition within the vibrant world of hospitality.
Currently, I hold the position of Business Development Manager at Hosplace Hotel Asset Management SRL, headquartered in Bucharest, Romania. In my role, my primary responsibilities revolve around identifying and pursuing new avenues for business growth. This entails conducting market research, analysing industry trends, and actively seeking out potential investors and partners to secure new hotel deals.
As a Business Development Manager, I play a crucial role in expanding the company’s portfolio and driving strategic initiatives to achieve sustainable growth. By leveraging my knowledge of the hospitality industry and employing effective business development strategies, I contribute to the overall success and profitability of Hosplace Hotel Asset Management SRL.
Studying International Hospitality Management at Manchester Met equipped me with valuable skills that have greatly influenced my career as a Business Development Manager at a hotel asset management company. Key skills gained include business development, market research, financial management, communication, negotiation, and cross-cultural competence. These skills have been instrumental in identifying growth opportunities, analysing markets, managing finances, negotiating deals, and building successful relationships with stakeholders.
Since graduating, I have continuously developed my career through qualifications, training, and professional development. This includes language certifications like TOEFL and French language qualifications, as well as the ECDL certification for digital competencies. Additionally, I have completed a Diplomacy and International Cooperation Course, a postgraduate psychopedagogy training programme, and obtained certificates in training, entrepreneurial skills, and hotel management. These qualifications have enhanced my skills, improved communication, expanded my knowledge, and equipped me to excel in the dynamic hospitality industry.
MY TOP TIP FOR STUDENTS IS
My top tip for finding a graduate job or progressing your career is to network actively. Attend industry events, join professional associations, utilize social media, seek out mentors, conduct informational interviews, and stay in touch with your network. Building meaningful connections can open doors to hidden opportunities and provide valuable guidance and support throughout your career journey.
I’M INSPIRED BY
I find inspiration in observing individuals who have successfully achieved a balanced integration of their professional and personal lives. Their ability to excel in their careers while maintaining fulfilling personal lives motivates me to strive for a similar equilibrium in my own life.
WHY I LOVE MANCHESTER MET
During my time at Manchester Met, what I loved most was the opportunity to study in a joint programme that provided a unique international perspective, allowing me to gain valuable experiences, broaden my horizons, and develop a global mindset that has been instrumental in my career.
Yes, during my time at Manchester Met, I made extensive use of the university’s electronic library services, which significantly contributed to my career progression. Accessing a wealth of resources, including academic journals, research papers, and e-books, allowed me to deepen my knowledge and gain a comprehensive understanding of the subjects I studied. The electronic library’s vast collection facilitated my research, enabling me to develop well-informed perspectives and enhance my critical thinking skills. By utilizing these valuable resources, I was able to strengthen my academic performance and acquire a solid foundation of knowledge, which has had a lasting impact on my professional development and skills.