Kristina’s journey in a Hotel General job at Accor

We are excited to share the inspiring story of Kristina Matulevičienė, a seasoned hospitality professional with over two decades of experience at Accor.

From her early days in the public sector to her current role as Deputy General Manager at Novotel Warszawa Centrum, Kristina's journey is a testament to her dedication, passion, and the enriching world of hospitality. 

In this interview, Kristina shares her insights, experiences, and the values that have guided her remarkable career. Join us as we explore her story as a Hotel General Manager and discover what makes hospitality such a fulfilling and dynamic industry.

Can you tell us about your early career in the hospitality industry?

“I have worked in hospitality my entire career, always related to tourism and hospitality. I started in the public sector and then moved to a travel agency where I organized trips to the Baltic. 

This was my first experience dealing with foreign guests, and I loved being able to show them how we could organize programs for them.” 

How did you begin your journey with Accor, and what was your first role?

“I joined my first Accor hotel, Novotel Vilnius Centre in Lithuania, 20 years ago. It was a pre-opening phase, so we had a new team and everyone was excited; that’s how my hotel career started. 

It has been a long journey, and I’ve never worked for another international company. It feels great to be part of the group because people are at the heart of everything we do, and that’s why I’m still here.” 

What is it about Accor’s company values that resonate with you? 

“Everyone benefits from the company values; we live with them – in Accor and in our personal lives, and that’s what makes the place where we work great. 

For some people, it could seem strange because today, people don’t stay in a company long. I’ve worked in two countries in four properties, which feels like working for four different companies without leaving. I have met many guests, colleagues, and cultures, and that is what energizes me.”

Could you elaborate on what the Heartist® culture means to you?

“For me, Heartist® is about being myself, being open-minded, smiling, honest, empathetic – everything that hospitality is. It’s about bringing your whole self to work and treating others with kindness and respect.”

What accomplishments are you most proud of in your career as a General Manager?

“I’m proud of everything I do every day. After 20 years, I might have gotten into a routine, but every day is different, and I love solving people’s problems. 

I found projects close to my heart in Lithuania and Poland, especially as the Ibis Kaunas Centre was the first Ibis in Lithuania and my first time as a General Manager. 

I’m proud of what we did as a team and of everybody I’ve worked with. I’m also proud of my team here; I learn from mentors, colleagues, and friends every day.”

How have your relationships with colleagues evolved over the years?

“I have made friends for the long term; even if I don’t see them every day, after 20 years I still have a good relationship with the people I worked with in the past. They are there, and if we meet, it feels as though it was just yesterday.”

What is your current role, and what does your day-to-day look like?

“Today, I am part of the Novotel Warszawa Centrum team. The hotel has 742 rooms and is among the biggest Accor hotels in Europe. Every day, we ensure the best possible hospitality for over a thousand guests, so my day is never boring.”

What advice would you give to young people considering a career in hospitality?

“Hospitality is a very good place to work, especially for young people. Be yourself, be open and honest, learn from your colleagues, and if you have a role you don’t like today, you can find another one in the same hotel. 

The opportunities are huge. You meet new people all the time, and every day is different.” 

Kristina Matulevičienė's journey in hospitality is a remarkable testament to the power of dedication, passion, and the supportive environment at Accor. 

From her early days organizing trips to becoming a key leader at Novotel Warszawa Centrum, Kristina's story highlights the endless opportunities and enriching experiences the hospitality industry offers. 

Discover a world where life pulses with passion with Hotel General Manager jobs at Accor.