Hospitality Heroes

To celebrate NTTW we wanted to highlight a few hospitality heroes in Gwinnett County. The hospitality industry is obviously very near and dear to our hearts, but it also services thousands of jobs. This industry includes hotels, restaurants, venues, event services and so much more. We reached out to a few of our partners to nominate people at their businesses who they see going above and beyond. 

There are hundreds of reasons why Gwinnett’s hospitality industry considers Al Stilo one of our National Travel + Tourism Week “Hospitality Heroes.” He’s creative, collaborative and a master salesman. He’s always willing to consider new ideas and partnerships, like tying in Explore Gwinnett’s “Seoul of the South” Korean Food Tour with Aurora’s most recent show, Kim’s Convenience, which told the first generation Korean experience to thousands of theatre-goers. He’s a passionate supporter of Explore Gwinnett initiatives including Gwinnett Burger Week. Al will create specials, speak to groups, host events, share and promote other organizations, and is seen in his industry as a sales and marketing leader.

Tola Mak, local restaurant owner in Gwinnett wanted to highlight one of his employees who has worked hard and moved up the ranks. Ricky started out as a food runner/bus boy at Parkside District and was soon promoted to server and is now a manager. Tola saw Ricky's potential and took him under his wing. He taught him how to run an efficient and profitable restaurant. He has now moved over to Stäge as a key member in the daily operations. 

Mandy Mabry, Director of Human Resources for the Hilton, nominated Marcos as a hospitality hero. Marcos has a warm demeanor that exudes positivity on a daily basis. He often offers translation services for their Spanish speaking employees. When the hotel switched to a new digital payroll system Marcos assisted employees that were uncomfortable with the new technology. He is always willing to help a team member in need and regularly translates questions to the manager with training. He knows how to “spread the light and warmth of hospitality,” and it shows every day at work. Other employees seek him out with questions and he is quickly developing into a leader among his peers.

Marcos was the Employee of the Month winner in February 2022, and recognized for his outstanding work in the laundry department and for being a tremendous team player. Marcos has contributed to the success of his team and his efforts are seen and felt throughout the laundry every day. 

Cammy joined the JMS Family prior to the Staybridge Suites opening in 2020 as a front desk associate. She would go above and beyond with the opening of the hotel by helping set up sleeping rooms, hang framed art on the wall and moving furniture. Whatever needed to be done, Cammy was there to jump into action. Shortly after opening the property, our Front Office Manager resigned their position. Cammy came barreling in to help, she took control of the front desk and stepped up to assist the General Manager. She was determined to learn what she needed to know for the success of the hotel and the team. After being the Front Office Manager for a year, a position opened up in the sales office and Cammy went for it. Cammy is a true hospitality story of strength and endurance, and we are proud to have her at the Staybridge Suites in Duluth GA