Though thirteen is considered unlucky for some, it doesn’t faze Sharon Jezeph, who on 13th June celebrates the end of her first year with leading hotel and conference group, Jurys Inns.
Sharon has spent the past 25 years of her career in the hospitality sector. After leaving school, she trained as a chef at The Belfry hotel before moving to London where she worked in the catering trade for 18 years before joining Sainsburys at the beginning of the “home shopping” revolution.
Later returning to The Belfry as part of the sales team, Sharon met Jurys Inns Director of Sales, Richard Money, who ten years later she joined as part of the Jurys Inns team.
Sharon tells us she loves working in the constantly evolving Meetings and Events sector, as no two days are the same.
” I love meeting new people, forming new connections and developing my own knowledge of our growing sector. Life is so diverse!”
Throughout her impressive career, Sharon has grown with the industry, enjoying achievements such as the successful development of land at The Belfry, implementing new processes to align with event technology and building her solid network of contacts with leading MICE professionals.
” I’ve made some super connections and even after a while out of the industry, it’s great to be able to pick up and connect again.”
So with 25 years under her belt at one of the UK’s leading hotel groups, what advice does Sharon have for those keen to get started in the hospitality sector?
“Get to know your industry, who the movers & shakers are, never be afraid to ask for business, BE GENUINE… and make sure you sleep well. It’s a hard job but very rewarding.”
Sharon tells us that one of the biggest challenges event professionals face is time.
” There aren’t enough hours in the day. It’s a very competitive market and so time management is key. There’s also a growing number of wonderful venues for event planners to choose from these days, so it’s a competitive sector, but an exciting time to be a part of it.”
(You’ll find our insights on current challenges in the Events industry here.)
So what about the future of hospitality? Sharon is an ambassador for service excellence.
“Clients, customers and connections need to know that they are your focus, and the only one you are dealing with at that particular moment. Listen.. it’s about what they want, not what fits you.”
Sharon’s mantra is to ensure that she provides as much information as possible, as efficiently as possible in order to help her clients make an executive decision. Her solid understanding of her sector means she will always deliver, and won’t promise what she can’t achieve.
A mantra that has served her well. We look forward to seeing what the future has in store for Jurys Inns.
Happy Anniversary Sharon! We’ll enjoy a slice of cake on your behalf…
Planning a business conference or event? Take a look at Sharon’s Conference Planning Tips or get in touch to discuss your requirements.