5 Minutes With… MIT Students Tomas & Hannah

We recently caught up with two of our current Managers-In-Training, Hannah Mason and Tomas O’Gorman to discuss how their journey on the Manager-In-Training (MIT) programme is progressing. The MIT programme allows them to trial and gain experience in every department across the hotel including Guest Service, Food and Beverage and Administration. This is a major benefit for Hannah and Tomas’ careers as having a wide understanding of hotel operations will enable them to become great managers in the future.

‘The best leaders are those who understand exactly what each role entails.’

Tell us about yourself.

Hannah: Hello, my name is Hannah, I am 22 and from a small village called Kilbane in County Clare. I am in my final year as part of my Bachelor of Business degree in Shannon College of Hotel Management. I am currently six months into my 18-month Manager-In-Training (MIT) programme here at Adare Manor, but I have been a part of the Adare Manor family since 2018. The MIT programme offers students cross-departmental exposure into various departments of a 5-star hotel. It is a wonderful opportunity to get insight into real life management duties and to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day operations of one of the finest luxury resorts.  

Tomas: My name is Tomas O’Gorman, I am 23 years old. I recently graduated from Shannon College of Hotel Management with an Honours Business degree. I am currently undergoing a Manager-In-Training programme here at Adare Manor where I have gained experience working in The Oak Room, The Gallery and The Drawing Room. I have recently completed my rotation in Front of House and will complete my final rotation in the Purchasing and Finance department. 

Why have you decided to pursue a career in Hospitality? 

Hannah: I have always enjoyed communicating with people and a career in the hospitality industry affords me the opportunity to network and make connections with individuals from all around the world. There is something so special about playing a part in enhancing a guest’s experience and in creating Beyond Everything memories. The industry opens so many doors to travel, learn and grow, both on a personal and professional manner.

‘No two days are the same in hospitality; you will never get bored, with so many moving elements there is always a new department, skill or technology to learn and further your development.’

Why did you choose to do your MIT programme here in Adare Manor? 

Hannah: I chose to do the MIT at Adare Manor as the 18-month programme offers me the chance to grow and develop my understanding of the various areas that hospitality entails. Adare Manor is the pillar of Irish hospitality, a unique property steeped in rich history, that I was fortunate enough to have on my doorstep. The management experience I am gaining throughout the MIT is crucial to my future progression within the hospitality industry.  

What expectations did you have about Adare Manor prior to commencing your MIT programme, and were they fulfilled?  

Tomas: I had never worked in a 5-star luxury property before so I knew the experience I received would be second to none. I really enjoyed the MIT programme as it gave me a real insight, variety and an array of options as to what area I would like to focus on in the future. I had also heard from friends previously that Adare Manor was a fantastic place to work. I definitely found that to be true. The working environment across the resort is great – it’s like one big family and everyone gets on well.  

What have you learnt during your time here? 

Tomas: I really enjoyed the variety of the programme, gaining experience working in different departments throughout my time here. I never thought I would be able to say that I have worked in a Michelin star restaurant at Adare Manor!! The challenges I encountered along the way have taught me a lot and will benefit me greatly in the future. Overall it was such a great and diverse learning experience. I really have to thank my colleagues as they are the ones who have I have taught me the most throughout this programme and have helped me grow enormously.  

How would you rate the tools/equipment provided to you to do your job? 

Hannah: In the restoration of Adare Manor, it is evident no stone was left unturned. It is the attention to detail in every aspect of the hotel. We are so fortunate to have state-of-the-art equipment, tools and resources to make our day-to-day tasks more efficient. We even have heated drawers for teacups! It is these little touches unknown to the guest that make their experience 5-star. We recently installed tablets in The Carriage House on each of the side stations to provide the team with all the information they need to enhance our guest’s experience.  

What advice would you give a student considering doing a placement/internship here? 

Hannah: Think about what role you see yourself in the future, research the MIT programme and consider how it will assist you in reaching your goal. If you want experience and exposure in all departments of a hotel then the MIT programme is for you. It will offer you in depth knowledge on the best management practices. Be ready to get outside your comfort zone and learn something new every day. As you change departments there is an opportunity to be mentored and supported by hotel professionals that are experts in their field. It is a great way to enhance your abilities through teamwork and projects. 

What has been your highlight during your time here? 

Tomas: The highlight for me has to be the team. Each and every one of my colleagues have been fantastic! From day one, I was welcomed as if I had been working at Adare Manor for years. I couldn’t have asked for better colleagues to begin my career with. Especially when we have our not-so-good days, there is always someone there to help, or to just listen. 

If you could describe your journey with Adare Manor in three words, what would they be? 

Tomas: Enjoyable, Special and Memorable.  

We would like to thank Hannah and Tomas for their hard work and dedication throughout their programme. The Adare Manor team are delighted to play a part in developing their skills, providing them with in-depth industry knowledge and best practices. We would like to wish them the very best of luck on the rest of their Manager-In-Training programme and looking forward to seeing what their future holds.  

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Learn more about our Management-In-Training programme here.

Interested in joining our team? Find out more about our available roles here.