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Congratulations to the 2026 Hospitality Heroes

Hilton Careers Team

11 June 2026

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At Hilton, heroes emerge among us every day – showing heart in times of need, acting with courage in moments of crisis, or simply bringing warmth to every guest interaction. These powerfully human moments define our hospitality and make Hilton the best place to work and the best place to stay. The Hospitality Heroes Award honors those who lift others up and create unforgettable guest experiences. 

Today, we’re proud to spotlight this year’s 55 Hospitality Heroes, Team Members whose actions inspire and remind us of what hospitality is all about. Meet just a few of the incredible Team Members who go above and beyond to make every stay unforgettable, and follow our social channels to discover more inspiring heroes all year long. 

Tushar Adhikary, Assistant Front Desk Manager Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, India  

Tushar, Assistant Front Desk Manager, exemplifies the spirit of hospitality through unwavering dedication and empathy. When a guest was in severe mental distress, Tushar acted swiftly, coordinating with hospitals, providing calm reassurance, and personally overseeing the guest’s transfer for urgent care. Even after the guest’s admission, Tushar continued to check in, offering support when the guest’s family was unable to travel. His ability to remain composed under pressure and act with genuine compassion made a lifesaving difference and reflects the highest standards of Hilton hospitality. 

Amy Parker, DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole, United Kingdom 

Amy received a request from a guest visiting Brighton for the first time to meet their long-distance partner. Recognizing the significance of the occasion, Amy upgraded their booking to a sea view room, arranged a personalized welcome, and created a tailored city guide. Her thoughtful touches turned a simple upgrade into a truly memorable and meaningful experience for the couple. 

Steve Beaulieu, Housekeeping Supervisor Hilton Quebec, Canada 

Steve, Housekeeping Supervisor, is a cornerstone of the Hilton Quebec team. His commitment to service shines in countless ways, like when a young guest left behind a favorite stuffed dog. Steve staged the toy in a photographic “adventure” around the hotel and sent the photos to the family, transforming a stressful loss into a magical memory. He also bridged language barriers with heartfelt effort, making every guest feel seen and valued. Steve’s actions embody the heart of Hilton, creating authentic connections and unforgettable experiences. 

Loro Chen, Operation Manager, The Mermoon Resort Hainan Tufu Bay, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, China 

When a guest’s child was injured during the local festival, Loro, Operations Manager, sprang into action. He coordinated with local authorities and hospitals, personally drove to register the child for care, and ensured the family received immediate medical attention. Upon their return, Loro arranged a comforting meal and thoughtful care, turning a stressful emergency into a touching memory. His leadership and compassion turned a travel mishap into a story of trust and gratitude. 

Natalie Couture, Hampton Inn Hadley-Amherst Area, USA 

During the holidays, Natalie noticed a young guest worried that Santa might skip the hotel because there were no presents under the lobby tree. That evening, she purchased and wrapped small gifts, placing them under the tree so the next morning, the child’s excitement filled the lobby. Natalie’s thoughtful gesture turned a simple decoration into a moment of real Christmas magic, showing how small acts can create the biggest memories. 

Check out the full list of winners:  

  • David Ruiz de Azua, Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort 
  • Jennifer Diluzio, HRCC Dallas 
  • Linda Smith, HRCC Dallas  
Learn more about life at Hilton and apply today. 

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12 May 2026

Turning a Passion for Hospitality into a Career at Hilton

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In recognition of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Month, we are proud to spotlight Haley, Sr. Manager, HR Consulting.Haley’s path at Hilton exemplifies how curiosity, purpose, and connection can shape a career in unexpected ways. She began on the Feasibility team, helping expand Hilton’s global footprint. Drawn to creating meaningful experiences for others, Haley fRead on to learn how Hilton supported her transition, the role community has played in her journey, and why hospitality—and Hilton—continue to fuel her passion for the work she does.You began your Hilton journey in feasibility. What first sparked your interest in moving to HR consulting, and what skills or perspectives from your early roles in feasibility still influence the way you approach your work today?“I was very inspired when Hilton was named the #1 workplace. I remember being at the in-person celebration in McLean and realizing just how much HR shapes the Team Member experience. As someone who is very purpose-driven, the opportunity to create meIn my current role, I support the Development team and help align HR strategy with Hilton’s growth strategy. Coming from a hotel real estate and feasibility background, I bring a strong understanding of the business to the role. Having previously parHow did Hilton support your transition into HR consulting and help you navigate that change with confidence?“Hilton played a huge role in supporting my transition, and the API Team Member Resource Group (TMRG) was especially impactful. TMRGs at Hilton are open to all Team Members, including community members and allies. When I first became interested in HRHaley and fellow Hilton Team Members attend the Great Place to Work Summit. What about hospitality, and Hilton specifically, has kept you engaged and excited throughout your career?“My passion for hospitality started early – I grew up in six cities across the US and Belgium. Moving frequently and traveling exposed me to new cultures, foods, and people, and sparked my love for connection. To me, that is the essence of hospitalitI have always believed hospitality has the power to build bridges between people from different backgrounds, which is why I’m so grateful to work for a company that brings that to life every day. What keeps me at Hilton is the alignment with its missOutside your role in HR consulting, you also help build connections and community across Hilton. How has that involvement shaped your sense of purpose and the way you show up at work? “I have been an active member and volunteer with the API TMRG since I started at Hilton in 2021, and as of January this year, I became one of the TMRG leaders. The API TMRG has always been a special space for me. I have loved attending events, from cThrough the TMRG, I have also built meaningful relationships with friends, mentors, and leaders who have inspired me. The API TMRG has been an integral part of my Hilton journey, and now as an API TMRG leader, I’m excited to give back to the communitHaley celebrates Lunar New Year with the API TMRG.How can Team Members make the most of the resources, people, and experiences available to them as they grow their careers at Hilton?“By staying open and following your curiosity. There are so many opportunities to learn and grow at Hilton, and I have found that being proactive – reaching out to people and exploring different areas – can lead to meaningful and unexpected experiencHaley and her team participate in a gingerbread competition at Hilton HQ. Inspired by Haley’s story? Explore open roles at Hilton and discover where your own career journey could lead.

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27 April 2026

Building a Hospitality Career from Within

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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 geBen’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 EmbWhat 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 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 pHow 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 thAnother 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 procWhat 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 SalesAnother 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 HiltHow 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, goinWhat 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 investsExplore open roles at Hilton and take the first step toward building a career that grows with you.

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30 March 2026

Meet The Hilton Leaders Opening Doors for the Next Generation of Women in Asia Pacific

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In line with the theme of this year’s Women’s History Month — “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future” — we shine a spotlight on leaders in Asia Pacific who exemplify what it looks like to lead the change.Linda Pecoraro and Gitanjali Chakravarthy ​​​​​​​Based in Malaysia, Linda has spent more than a decade at Hilton building inclusive environments where young women can see themselves in leadership, and Gitanjali in Sri Lanka, is spearheading a traineeship program that provLinda and Gitanjali are among many women across Hilton’s portfolio whose impact extends well beyond the hotels they run.Hilton has been named the World's Best Workplace and the No. 1 Best Workplace in Asia by Great Place to Work and Fortune, and its commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces where women can thrive continues to deepen. This year, Hilton was named theWith more than 2,300 new hotel leadership positions expected across Asia Pacific by 2030, Hilton is committed to ensuring women are well represented in that growth. In Greater China, women hold 27% of General Manager roles and more than 60% of DepartGitanjali Chakravarthy, General Manager of Hilton Yala Resort Gitanjali has dedicated her career to the hospitality industry, blazing a trail as the first Sri Lankan woman to hold the position of General Manager for a global hotel brand when she was appointed to lead Hilton Yala Resort in 2019. A former senior That commitment led to the launch of HAPPY — the Hospitality Apprenticeship for Youth program — a Travel with Purpose initiative led by Hilton Yala Resort designed to create access to meaningful opportunities for youths in the resort’s surrounding co“Healthy destinations mean thriving communities,” Gitanjali said. “Our long-term success depends on the sustainability of the places where we operate.”Working closely with local religious institutions and educational authorities to identify candidates, the program has run four intakes since July 2023, providing training across Housekeeping, Front Office, Kitchen and F&B for more than 50 youths.“We are proud of the impact HAPPY has had,” Gitanjali said, “Five graduates, including young women from nearby villages, are currently part of our Hilton family, while others have found roles at nearby properties, and one has secured employment oversLinda Pecoraro, General Manager of Hilton Kuala Lumpur and Area General Manager of Malaysia Central North EastLinda knew early on in her hospitality career that she wanted to lead. However, working her way up in an industry where women in senior leadership were still the exception meant navigating challenges that tested her resilience and determination.“As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, I recognized the importance of breaking through preconceived notions and overcoming gender-related barriers,” Linda said, “There were instances where I had to prove my capabilities beyond any doLinda, has therefore, made a concerted effort in her career to champion mentorship programs, women-in-leadership forums, and outreach initiatives with educational institutions to create opportunities for young women entering the industry. These collaAlong the way, Linda was fortunate to have mentors and allies who recognized her potential and shared growth opportunities with her. Joining Hilton more than a decade ago, she has since led teams at Hilton Kota Kinabalu, Conrad Manila, and now HiltonLinda shares the story of mentoring a single mother who had been out of the workforce for some time. Through guidance and support, she was able to rebuild her confidence and start her own small business, which became a meaningful step towards financiLinda has also mentored individuals within the organisation who have progressed significantly including a Team Member who has since taken on a Hotel Manager role in Dubai. These journeys are incredibly rewarding to witness.Gitanjali and Linda are just two of the women leading the change in Asia Pacific. Here are three more making their mark:Fiona Pryde, General Manager of Hilton Surfers ParadiseFiona Pryde, General Manager of Hilton Surfers Paradise, is known for encouraging her team to make space for what matters most to them – a leadership philosophy she credits to the leaders at Hilton who did the same for her. A strong advocate for diveChristina Yang, General Manager of Waldorf Astoria BeijingChristina Yang, General Manager of Waldorf Astoria Beijing, made the leap from lifestyle to luxury when she moved from leading Canopy by Hilton Chengdu to taking the helm at one of China’s most storied luxury properties. Under her leadership, the WalYumi Onuki, Director of Operations at Conrad NagoyaYumi Onuki, Director of Operations at Conrad Nagoya, has built her Hilton career across Tokyo, Osaka, and Macau. She has twice been entrusted with launching luxury properties from the ground up — first at Waldorf Astoria Osaka, and now at Conrad Nago

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