Sheraton Dubai Crerek Hotel & Towers welcomes new Assistant Food & Beverage Manager

Italian-born Monica arrived in Dubai in search of a new experience. Due to her love for languages and her desire to travel the world, Monica decided to enrol herself into the Vocational High School for Hotel & Services in Rome. From there, she continued her education in the Tourism sector and got acquainted with the practical side of the hotel industry when she began as a waitress at the Cavalieri Hilton Hotel during the summer months.

After graduation, Monica decided to perfect her English and was in London for a 5-month student exchange programme. Then, she had the opportunity for a cross training exposure with the Colombo Hilton where she spent 4 months in Housekeeping. Since then, she decided that Food & Beverage was more her cup of tea and went on to involve herself in all aspects of Food & Beverage in pursuit of excellence and experience, which included learning the ropes of catering for opera houses and exhibitions, thus sharpening her organisational and coordination skills. Monica also refined her people's skills and management styles when she took charge of the entertainment programmes on board Mediterranean Shipping Cruises.

Her career with Starwood Hotels & Resorts began when she returned to the hotel business and worked as a Captain at the Vivendo Restaurant, an Italian restaurant at the renowned St Regis Grand Hotel in Rome. There, Monica enhanced her Food & Beverage knowledge by grasping all there is to know on wines. Ensuring the smooth running of the restaurant service was an important aspect of Monica's responsibilities as the hotel was a favourite haven for celebrities, politicians, sports stars and local socialites.

After a 4 year stint at Vivendo Restaurant, Monica was looking to enrich her work experience further. She moved into the Event Sales department, working on group contracts from 20 to 400 persons and honing her negotiation skills and communications styles.

Now, 3 years later and fuelled by her love for travel, Monica arrives in Dubai. "Dubai is currently the buzz word in Europe - here is where it's all happening especially for the hotel industry. What better place to be than here," said an enthusiastic Monica when asked what brought her to the Middle East.

Armed with 17 years of working experience, Monica hopes to share her expertise with Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers' food and beverage team, spearheading its restaurants to greater culinary heights. Good luck and welcome to the UAE!