Why is Hilton the #1 World’s Best Workplace? It starts with a culture built on internal mobility, professional development, and opportunity, made possible by a global footprint of more than 9,000 hotels worldwide. With countless brands, roles, and geographies to explore, Team Members are empowered to grow careers that evolve alongside their passions and strengths.
Ben’s journey is a powerful example of what is possible in a career at Hilton. Starting as a front desk agent, he discovered a passion for hospitality that led him to sales and, ultimately, his current role as Director of Sales & Marketing at Embassy Suites by Hilton Santa Clara. Keep reading to learn how internal mobility, leadership support, and meaningful development opportunities helped Ben turn ambition into a long‑term career at Hilton.
What initially drew you to join Hilton, and what has kept you motivated to continue growing your career here over time?
“I was initially drawn to Hilton because of its global reputation, but I was not particularly knowledgeable about the company’s values and what Hilton truly represents. That changed quickly. Starting at the front desk gave me a firsthand perspective of how much the company values its people. Shortly after, I realized that the same commitment is extended to their guests. Although my career plans had not yet been identified, my passion for customer service was evident. My leaders recognized my determination and allowed me to use my creativity to truly make a difference in the guest experience. What has kept me motivated is the undeniable culture of recognition, growth, and opportunity. Hilton celebrates you, advocates for you, and unlocks possibilities that you never thought were feasible.”
Can you walk us through the key moments that shaped your career journey?
“While working on the front desk team at Hampton Inn by Hilton Chilliwack, I developed a strong interest in our hotel’s performance, our reputation, and most importantly, our people. In 2020, I transitioned into a sales manager role, which marked a pivotal shift in my career. One of the most meaningful milestones was receiving the Hilton Circle of Excellence Award in my third year in the role, which included an awards trip to Conrad Tulum alongside top performers from around the world. I returned from the trip with an unwavering amount of gratitude and a newfound ambition to continue growing with Hilton.”
How has Hilton supported your career development and helped you take the next step in your career?
“In 2024, I was enrolled in Hilton’s Networking Conversations Program, where I had the opportunity to connect with Hilton Regional Leaders who mentored me and provided guidance on driving results, managing people, and overcoming challenges. During this program, I was given a book that forever shaped my perspective on team success: The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni.
Another defining example of Hilton’s support throughout was my move from British Columbia, Canada, to California, U.S., to join the Embassy Suites by Hilton Santa Clara team as Director of Sales and Marketing. Hilton guided me through the entire process, enabling me to continue advancing my career in a new market. I received endless support from Hilton regional leaders and Hilton recruiters, along with the hotel team I was departing, and the new team I was joining.”
What opportunities have helped you explore new paths throughout your career at Hilton?
“Hilton’s encouragement of internal mobility enabled me to explore different career paths while continuing to grow within the company. In 2023 and 2024, I attended Hilton Sales conferences, which provided comprehensive training on Hilton’s Core Sales Skills. These meetings provided the opportunity to connect with your peers, visit fascinating markets, and network with Regional Leaders who had the ability to influence your career path.
Another key opportunity has been Go Hilton, our Team Member travel program. This program gives us the unique ability to explore destinations worldwide and experience Hilton from the guest’s perspective. After visiting some of the best properties Hilton has to offer, and receiving the best service you could dream of, it was clear that Hilton will be my home for years to come.”
How has Hilton’s culture shaped your experience as you have grown your career here?
“Hilton’s focus on recognition, collaboration, and inclusion creates an environment where people feel valued and motivated to succeed. Unreasonable Hospitality, by Will Guidara, created the blueprint for how customers deserve to be treated, going far beyond standard expectations to create personalized experiences that are memorable and delightful. Hilton has expanded this ideology by not only embodying it with its guests but also treating its Team Members with the same level of intent, thoughtfulness, and appreciation. Hilton’s values are in perfect alignment with mine, and because of this, pursuing a career here was the easiest decision I have made.”
What does your journey say about the kind of career someone can build at Hilton—and why does that make it such a special place to work?
“My journey reflects how Hilton empowers individuals to grow from entry-level roles into leadership positions through hard work and dedication. It’s a special place to work because the company not only provides opportunities but also actively invests in helping team members identify their superpowers, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals. Ten years ago, when I was working as a front desk agent, I never would have thought that in 2026 I’d be leading a sales team in a market-leading hotel in Silicon Valley, hosting some of the world’s most anticipated events. With Hilton, dreams can become reality.”
