Shape your career as a sales executive: Irene Garcia Menendez at Novotel

At Accor, a sales executive career is an opportunity to connect with people, create unforgettable experiences, and grow in ways you never imagined. 

Our sales executive roles offer a unique chance to combine creativity, problem-solving, and personal connection while helping clients bring their ideas to life. 

We spoke to Irene Garcia Menendez, Banqueting Sales Executive at Novotel Paris Est, to learn about her journey in hospitality and what makes hotel sales jobs so rewarding.

How did you get started in hospitality?

“I didn’t plan to go into hospitality at first, I wanted to be a teacher! But after studying translation and interpreting in French and English, and moving to France to teach Spanish, I realised I wanted a career that would allow me to stay and grow. 

My first hotel role was at ibis Paris 17 Clichy-Batignolles, and even though the interview was unconventional (I did it in the car!), it kick-started my journey in hospitality. 

Hospitality opened doors I hadn’t even considered, and I’ve been learning and growing ever since.”

What inspired you to move into sales executive roles?

“I started on the front desk and later worked as a sales assistant, which introduced me to the world of hotel sales jobs. 

I didn’t know much about sales at first, but my managers took the time to teach me. Now, as a Banqueting Sales Executive at Novotel Paris Est, I help clients bring their events to life in a large hotel with multiple meeting rooms. 

Sales roles are exciting because they combine creativity, problem-solving, and personal connection; every client interaction is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.” 

At Accor, we love revealing and empowering you to let you invent your own future. Helping our Heartists® grow professionally and develop personally, according to their desires and ambitions, is our priority.

What makes a career in hospitality sales so rewarding?

“A career in hospitality sales is limitless. As a sales executive, you’re not just managing bookings, you’re helping people realise their ideas, whether it’s a business conference or a private celebration. 

You see the direct impact of your work and connect with guests in ways that make their stay memorable. The human element is key; you help clients feel confident and supported, creating experiences they’ll remember for years.” 

Our teams, our customers, our hotels, and our environment are at the heart of our concerns. 

Our mission is human, essential: to bring cultures together, open windows on the world, and provide unforgettable experiences, day after day.

What opportunities has Accor given you to grow?

“Accor has provided me with countless opportunities to learn, develop, and explore new roles. From front desk to sales, and now managing events as a banqueting sales executive, every step of my career has been supported by mentorship, training, and the freedom to take initiative. 

Accor encourages its employees to grow globally; there are no limits if you are willing to learn and embrace the adventure of hospitality careers.”

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in hotel sales?

“Be curious and adventurous. Hotel sales jobs are dynamic, and every day is different. Discover as much as you can about the behind-the-scenes operations, connect with clients, and never underestimate the power of learning on the job. 

Most importantly, put your heart into your work; that’s what being a Heartist® is all about.”

Turn your passion into impact in a sales executive career

A career in sales at Accor is more than a role; it’s a journey of growth, creativity, and connection. 

If you’re ready to help clients bring their ideas to life, shape memorable experiences, and grow in a supportive, global community, explore our banqueting sales executive roles and hotel sales jobs. Your next opportunity to make an impact awaits.