At Hilton, we emphasize the importance of our Team Members thriving in every aspect of their life – personally and professionally. Johanna, General Manager at the Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Barsha, embraces this principle as part of her daily life and has shared her unique passion for wellness by leading Team Members through guided fitness training. Below, Johanna highlights her Hilton journey, what Thrive means to her, and how she encourages a culture of health and balance among Team Members.
What is your current role at Hilton, and what do you love most about it?
“I have been a part of Team Hilton for more than 20 years. Since beginning as a Hilton trainee in Venezuela, I have worked across 3 continents and at over 10 hotels in Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Glasgow, Sydney, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.
I love everything about my current role as a General Manager, but the most exciting and amazing part is being able to work with incredibly talented humans that come together every day and give their ALL to create an amazing experience for our customers.”
How did you come to lead a fitness training class for your team?
“Sports and living a healthy lifestyle have always been important to me. Our Commercial Manager recognized this and suggested hosting an afternoon of wellness for our hotel clients and team.
Through my daily exercise, I'm familiar with various training plans and have created a 45-minute bodyweight routine for our attendees. I had never led a fitness class before, so I was incredibly thrilled to share this with our clients and team. Everyone enjoyed it so much that we now plan to host this quarterly.”
How do you experience Thrive at Hilton? As a leader, how do you prioritize this for your team?
“I honestly believe in maintaining a positive work-life balance and keeping in mind that quality is more important than quantity. With focus and versatility, I believe people can produce high-quality work without spending tireless hours feeling exhausted.
Hilton’s values strongly encourage this balance in life, and I ensure that all Team Members prioritize their wellbeing by taking a day off, going on holidays, and leaving work on time to recharge for the next day’s adventure.”
What has been your best day at Hilton?
“Every day is the best day. In each Hilton hotel where I have worked, I have created great memories. At my current hotel, the best days were when my team was rewarded for all their hard work and dedication. We have won 4 of Hilton’s global awards within the last 12 months, including Hampton Sales Leader of the Year and Best Improved Overall Service for Hampton EMEA. Seeing them be recognized is the best gift for me.”
