Join us as we delve into the career trajectories of two of Europe’s youngest General Managers, exploring how Hilton's unwavering support for Team Member growth and development was pivotal to their success. Follow their Hilton journey and learn firsthand from their experiences, challenges, and the invaluable advice they offer aspiring leaders.
Meet Ryan Gauci
Ryan began his journey with Hilton in 2007 at Hilton Isle of Man, starting as an apprentice in the Conference and Events Sales department. While at this property, he met Kim Van Campfort, one of the BPS Managers at the time, whose passion for the brand ignited his own.
His love for Hilton led him to Hilton Malta as a Front Desk agent. He returned to the Isle of Man in 2009 as Front Office Manager, facing the challenge of leading despite his limited managerial experience. Thanks to guidance from the then-GM, Robert Duncan, he was able to grow as a manager and a leader.
In 2010, he moved to mainland UK, taking on various roles in hotels across northern England, including Director of Operations at Hilton Liverpool at 28. He also held positions at Hilton Warsaw and Hilton Prague, with short stints at Hilton Evian les Bains and Hilton Lake Como during GM transitions. At age 35, he assumed his first GM role, overseeing the opening and operation of Hilton Rijeka Costabella Beach Resort & Spa. Finally, in 2024, he relocated back to Prague to lead Hilton Prague, the largest hotel in Continental Europe.
How has Hilton supported your career growth and development?
“The most significant way Hilton has supported my growth and development is by allowing me to build my network in the company. Starting from the opportunity to learn directly from some of the top General Managers in the industry, I've been fortunate to work alongside inspiring leaders who embody Hilton’s values. Hilton also offers a range of leadership development courses for internal Team Members to move from supervisory to GM level, such as the Lead and Shine programs. Which have both been instrumental in my professional development.”
What is your favourite part of being on Team Hilton?
“The greatest part of being on #TeamHilton is the opportunity to work in different locations across the globe, which allowed me to meet countless individuals, expand my professional network, and experience various cultures. Whether for work or leisure, I frequently encounter familiar faces from this network, further solidifying my sense of belonging to a global community.”
What is your advice for others looking to grow their careers at Hilton?
“In my experience, the key to advancing your career within Hilton is to remain open to new opportunities. Embrace the chance to travel, work in different locations, and immerse yourself in diverse environments. In your career, seek roles that challenge you and provide hands-on learning experiences. Take ownership of your development and actively seek out growth opportunities.
Additionally, cultivate a strong network of colleagues who can support and advocate for you. When pursuing new roles, having a network of supporters can make a significant difference in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities for advancement."
Meet Stella Zinn
Stella's professional journey with Hilton started at 21 as an Elevator Trainee. This program creates future leaders by providing young graduates with foundational knowledge and experience. She progressed rapidly, setting a goal to become a General Manager by 30.
After placements in Glasgow and Prague, she became Assistant Food & Beverage (F&B) Manager at Hilton Prague at 23. By 25, she was promoted to Food & Beverage Manager, overseeing the region's most prominent F&B revenue operation. At 27, she managed the opening of a franchise Hampton by Hilton in Germany and later became Cluster General Manager. In May 2022, she moved to Vienna as Hotel Manager at Hilton Vienna Plaza, becoming General Manager just before her 30th birthday in 2023.
In 2023, Hospitality On honoured her with the "Breakthrough in Hospitality" Award. Now, she is preparing to relocate to Kosovo to assume the role of General Manager for the soon-to-open Hilton Pristina.
What is your favourite part of being on Team Hilton?
“My favourite aspect of working at Hilton is the people. We are fortunate to have some of the industry's best leaders, and over those years, I have grown an incredible network of colleagues, mentors, partnerships, and friends. I also love the opportunity to work in different countries and manage different types of properties. With Hilton's expansive network of hotels and an impressive pipeline of new properties, I can work travel anywhere in the world. It is exciting to be part of the company's growth and see what the future holds!”
What is your advice for others looking to grow their careers at Hilton?
"Set ambitious career goals for short, medium, and long terms, yet remain adaptable to unexpected opportunities. Embrace challenges and diversify your skills through varied experiences in different hotel brands, countries, and roles. Be kind to yourself; mistakes are part of growth. Build a supportive network early on for guidance and career planning. Leave a lasting impact in every role by implementing meaningful changes."
Ryan and Stella offer a glimpse into the future of leadership at Hilton, where innovation and career growth are celebrated. As they continue to navigate their careers with passion and purpose, they embody the spirit of excellence that defines #TeamHilton.
