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Celebrating the Power of Intergenerational Relationships

Hilton Careers Team

21 September 2023

Europe, Middle East, AfricaUnited States, Canada, Caribbean, Latin AmericaInclusionTeam Member stories

September is Intergenerational Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the value of intergenerational relationships in the workplace and beyond.

In honor of this month, we challenged Team Hilton to reflect on the strength of the five generations working side-by-side at Hilton. Keep reading as they share their experiences and advice – these lifelong learners prove that our workforce is better for each generation’s unique perspectives and contributions they bring to the workplace.

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Cali Smith, Account Manager, Hilton Worldwide Sales

Millennial

“I joined Hilton in 2014 through the Management Development Program. I worked as a Sales Manager at the  Hilton Anatole before moving to the  Hilton Dallas Park Cities as Senior Group Sales Manager. In 2018, I joined our national sales team.”

What advice would you pass on to another generation?
"As the great author Brene Brown teaches, ‘Dare to be vulnerable.’ It is okay not to know everything. You can learn so much and create meaningful connections if you come into situations with the right intentions, empathy, and awareness.”

Amy Clark, Managing Director, Association & Government Group Sales, Hilton Worldwide Sales

Gen X

“I am happily still in the initial stages of my Hilton journey. I joined at the time of my milestone birthday, so it was the perfect moment to start a new chapter in my career.”

Why do you think it is important to have a multi-generational workforce?

“At Hilton and across the hospitality industry, there is a job for everyone, for every age and stage of your career. If we remain curious about those around us and their experiences, we open our minds to growth, knowledge, empathy, and mutual understanding. Being continuously curious enriches the workplace and builds community.”

Munira Shalwani, Representative, Inbound Sales

Baby Boomer

“My journey began in April 2007 at the Hilton Reservation and Customer Care (HRCC) Center. During this time, I earned three Commitment to Excellence awards. I am now on the Hilton Inbound Sales team and have been here for 11 years.”

What advice would you pass on to another generation?

"Be open to learning from each other and respect each other's feedback. The future is built when knowledge is shared.”

Tarek Hamoud, Food & Beverage Manager,  DoubleTree by Hilton Fujairah City

Gen X

“I joined Hilton in August 2002 as an Elevator Management trainee in London. I had fantastic appointments throughout Europe and the Middle East. I am currently the Food & Beverage Manager at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.”

What is something you have learned from another generation?

“An important lesson taught by a different generation is always to consider the bigger picture and have a strategic perspective, the macro vision. This will always set the pace for your actions.”

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Sandra Clavijo, Manager, Hilton Honors Program Economics

Millennial

“I joined Hilton out of college as a specialist at our Dallas Revenue Management Consolidation Center (RMCC) office. After seven years in revenue management, I wanted to explore other careers, so I joined the Hilton Honors team. I am learning so much – the team is doing incredible work reminding the world that Hilton is For the Stay.”

 What advice would you pass on to another generation?

"Keep a curious and learner's mindset."

Claudia Wood, Corporate Rotational Analyst

Gen Z

“My journey at Hilton started last summer as a Marketing & Loyalty (M&L) intern! After completing my internship, I continued working for Hilton as a Campus Brand Ambassador. After graduation, I became a Corporate Rotational Analyst.”                                                                                                                                                                                                 

What advice would you pass on to another generation?
“Network with everyone, regardless of age or position. You never know what similarities you will have with someone, and it is always great to speak with people who have perspectives different from yours!”

Ashley Galvan, Sales Support Coordinator, Hilton Worldwide Sales (HWS)

Gen Z

“I began my Hilton journey in June 2022 as a HWS Support Coordinator. During this time, I collaborated with various generations, and each strongly contributed to my success. In March 2023, I was promoted to HWS Group Executive Director Support Coordinator.”          

What advice would you pass on to another generation?

“Embrace the change. Our response to change influences our experiences. Leaning into it instead of shying away from it can lead to smoother transitions and personal development. Change provides a chance to acquire new skills and play a part in shaping the industry of tomorrow.”

Troy Kellerman, Revenue Executive, Watford

Gen X

“My Hilton journey is still relatively new. I started at Hilton after a successful career in the US Army. Initially, I worked as a Group Reservations Coordinator for the Hilton Downtown Des Moines. I am grateful for the opportunity they gave me as a disabled veteran to work and the mentorship they provided. After working at the hotel for 18 months, I joined the Accelerate program at RMCC Watford, managing revenue for a portfolio of hotels in EMEA.”

 What advice would you pass on to another generation?

“A good mentor can help you achieve your goal faster than trying to do things alone.” 

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Julia VanCora, Customer Insights Analyst

Gen Z

“I was hired in October 2022 as a Customer Insights Analyst. This was my second job out of college and my first corporate job. I relocated for the position. I absolutely love my job, team, and the DC area – I am so happy I took the leap and began my Hilton journey!”

What is something you have learned from another generation in the workplace?

“Being so new out of college and in the workforce, I’ve learned a lot from older generations about business etiquette and the soft skills that help you move forward in your career.”

Ajay Dmello, Human Resources Manager, DoubleTree Fujairah City

Millennial

“My Hilton journey began at the Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Beach in 2010 on the Food & Beverage team. I transitioned to Learning and Development (L&D) in 2015. Today, I am the Human Resources Manager at the DoubleTree Fujairah City.”  

Why do you think it is important to have a multi-generational workforce?

“Having a multi-generational workforce helps us to think and do things out of the box. Our team will not only perform but outperform. We will always succeed if we have a multi-generational workforce.”

Geneva Griffin, Senior Associate, HRX

Millennial

“During my tenure with Hilton, I have assisted in many areas of Human Resources, including Onboarding and helping our team members with medical leaves and accommodations.”  

What is something you have learned from another generation in the workplace?

“Working in Human Resources at Hilton, I interact with team members of all ages and generations. I love Generation Z's drive; they do not settle and keep moving in pursuit of their career goals.” 

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