DoubleTree by Hilton Brings Double Happiness to Shenyang
——An Interview with Mr. Sandy Murray
General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Shenyang
希尔顿逸林带给沈阳的双重惊喜
——专访沈阳保成希尔顿逸林酒店总经理莫瑞森先生
Interview & English Version: Randy Lee Svendsen Chinese Version: Fiona
Photos: by DoubleTree by Hilton Shenyang
A new hotel has opened in Shenyang, Liaoning Province. DoubleTree by Hilton Shenyang is a splendid new addition to this fast growing city, which will be home next year to the 12th National Games of the People’s Republic of China. This gleaming diamond on a busy corner of the city is a contemporary haven for travelers and local residents alike, where every visitor can experience the creativity brought to these facilities by Mr. Sandy Murray, General Manager, and his well-trained staff of smiling hospitality professionals. From the website: “Enjoy a warm welcome at the DoubleTree by Hilton Shenyang in Shenhe District. The central location in Wu'ai Merchandise Wholesale Market makes it an ideal base. Admire the sail-like architecture outside and the welcoming atmosphere inside. There are 389 Guest Rooms and 25 Suites. Upgrade to an Executive Floor room for access to the Executive Lounge, tea and coffee throughout the day, complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access and express check-in/check-out service.”
Mr. Sandy Murray came to the hospitality business early in his life. “It was my first job. I started as a busboy at 16 while still attending school. Then when I was 18 and old enough to serve behind the bar I became a barman. In one year I was working 3 jobs as waiter, barman, and mini-bar attendant, all at the same time. From day one I knew this was the industry that I wanted to work in. My job is really an extension of my life – I love traveling and hotels, so it only makes sense to make it part of my whole life. My colleagues are also my friends.” His path to General Manager began early as well. “I joined Hilton as soon as I turned 18. It was the first 5 Star Hotel to open in my hometown Adelaide, Australia. At the time I was also completing a Degree in Hotels & Restaurant Management. It was not easy and in the beginning they insisted I start at the bottom like all people of 18, but I thought I should be higher – I am so glad I did not let my pride get in the way. After 18 months in Food & Beverage (F&B), Hilton asked me to join the Hotel Management program, which I was glad I did because it gave me a good understanding of other disciplines like Finance, Business Development, and Human Resources. From there I went back to F&B and within a few years my title was Assistant F&B Manager. A key for me was to take whatever came available no matter how it sounded. Often in hotels, the posting you think will not be exciting is quite the opposite. Realizing I needed more overseas experience I transferred to London Hilton on Park Lane.