From carpentry to Maintenance Manager: Olivier Eyriac’s journey in hospitality

When it comes to career changes, few are as transformative as Olivier Eyriac’s journey. From a Carpenter in the construction industry to a Maintenance Manager in the hotel sector, Olivier has embraced a new challenge in the fast-paced world of hospitality. 

If you’re considering a career in hotel maintenance or curious about what it takes to succeed as a Maintenance Manager, read on for some valuable insights. 

Olivier, can you tell us about your career journey and how you transitioned into hospitality?

“Hospitality has been a complete career change for me. I come from the construction industry, where I worked as a carpenter on building sites in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. After a health issue, I decided to redirect my career and pursue something new. 

I wanted to take on a challenge in an unfamiliar field, which is why I chose the hotel industry. My first step was an internship at the Mercure Château Chartrons in Bordeaux, where I quickly realized how much I enjoyed the variety of tasks involved in hotel maintenance. 

It wasn’t long before I moved to Novotel Bordeaux Lac in early 2023, where I’ve had the chance to work on a wide range of maintenance projects.”

What does a typical day look like for you as a Maintenance Manager at Novotel Bordeaux Lac?

“My main job is to manage maintenance as a preventive measure or to address any issues that arise. Every day brings its own set of surprises, whether it’s fixing a faucet, replacing a mirror, or restarting the heating system. 

I handle all aspects of hotel maintenance, including electricity, plumbing, bedding, restrooms, meeting rooms, green spaces, and even the swimming pool. Some tasks I manage myself, while others require the help of contractors and suppliers. 

I appreciate the variety in my day-to-day tasks—there’s always something different to tackle. 

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is the chance to add a personal touch to the hotel, like decorating the restaurant, meeting rooms, or lobby for initiatives like "October Pink."”

What aspect of being a Maintenance Manager do you enjoy most?

“I really enjoy the diversity of tasks and the ability to problem-solve daily. One of my proudest achievements was contributing to the success of renovating half of our rooms. 

It required a lot of versatility, as I worked with various service providers from different trades. The satisfaction of seeing the completed work and knowing I played a role in it is very rewarding. 

I also enjoy working in a team-oriented environment. We all rely on each other, and it’s great to contribute to something bigger than yourself.”

Why do you enjoy working for Accor, and what makes it different from other companies?

“I enjoy working for Accor because of its presence all around the world. The hospitality industry itself is dynamic and operates 24/7, which keeps things exciting. 

I get to meet clients from all walks of life—business travellers, associations, tourists, and more. It’s a very diverse and lively environment. 

Working at Accor means being part of a collective adventure, where the success of the hotel depends on how well the teams work together. The sense of teamwork is something I value deeply here.”

What advice would you give someone considering a career as a Maintenance Manager in the hotel industry?

“My advice would be to stay curious and take a genuine interest in the hotel’s current affairs. Learn about its clients, the events it hosts, and its role in the neighborhood. 

Don’t be afraid to take initiative and propose new ideas, no matter your role. If you’re passionate about the work and show a willingness to learn, the possibilities are endless.”

Start your career adventure as a Maintenance Manager at Accor

Olivier’s journey from the construction industry to a successful Maintenance Manager at Novotel Bordeaux Lac shows how a career in hospitality can offer a fresh start and exciting opportunities. 

If you’re looking for an exciting role where every day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth, a position like Olivier’s might be the perfect fit for you. 

Our global presence and commitment to teamwork and innovation make it an ideal place to start your career in hotel maintenance. 

Explore Maintenance Manager opportunities at Accor today and begin your own journey in the world of hospitality!