Originally published on LinkedIn. Marriott International is a Hall of Fame company. David Marriott is Chairman of the Board at Marriott International.
David Marriott shared the following post on LinkedIn:
When I heard about Thank Your Mentor Day, I knew I had to recognize Paulette Barnaby.
Paulette has been a pillar at the Bethesda Marriott in Maryland since the hotel opened more than 40 years ago — starting as a line cook, moving on to banquet prep, and now Lead Cook — who happens to also serve up the best omelets in town.
Paulette is a great leader and teacher and has long had a role in training new associates, including me during my first job when I was working in the kitchen at 15.
When my dad, Bill Marriott, was in college at the University of Utah, he worked at our family’s Hot Shoppe restaurant in Salt Lake City. He started out washing pots, got promoted to run the deep fryer and eventually learned every job besides waiting tables during his four years. That experience was important to him, so he encouraged all of us to work in the heart of the house. When it was my turn to learn the ropes, Paulette was there to guide me. She taught me knife skills, portioning, cold prep, hot prep and the importance of a clean workstation. I can’t say I’m much of a cook, but what I know, I learned from Paulette.
I was so glad to get to see her last fall during a visit with members of our Board. Seeing people build lifelong careers with us is such a highlight. While we were together, Paulette said, “Business is good. I enjoy what I do. It’s amazing — I love working here.” General Manager Chris Madoo and I love hearing that.
Paulette embodies Marriott International’s people-first culture — her commitment to excellence and compassion make her the ultimate role model. Thank you, Paulette, for taking me under your wing all those years ago.