
Gábor’s story: What it takes to thrive as a General Manager at Accor
At Accor, we believe every career has the potential to transform lives—both for our guests and our team members.
For Gábor Ulkei, now a General Manager at Hotel Nemzeti Budapest - MGallery, the hospitality industry became a stage for professional growth, personal connections, and meaningful impact.
From starting at reception to leading teams and driving global projects, Gábor’s journey highlights the exciting possibilities that come with a career at Accor.
What inspired you to pursue a career in hospitality and ultimately become a General Manager?
“I didn’t know what sector of hospitality interested me at first, so I started working in reception at Hilton. Over time, my confidence grew, and I got curious about other departments.
I moved into reservations, where I refined processes and learned so much, which inspired me to keep progressing. Later, I transitioned to Sofitel Budapest as a Sales Manager, where I finally felt I could be myself and truly grow.”
What has been your most rewarding experience as a General Manager at Accor?
“Of all my accomplishments, being a Heartist® supertransformer stands out the most. It was an amazing journey where I met colleagues from across the globe—South America, Africa, Asia—and we bonded over five emotional days together. I still have friends from this experience, spanning cities like Moscow, Miami, and London.
Another highlight was leading the transformation project in Hungary. I collaborated with other Heartist® transformers and General Managers during seven training sessions. This opportunity to inspire and engage with colleagues at such a personal level was deeply fulfilling.”
Can you share a memorable project as a General Manager that shaped your career?
“One of my most impactful projects was working on Accor’s online platform, Alfred. For seven months, I was part of a diverse team of professionals from Dubai, France, and Spain.
We worked at Accor’s Paris headquarters to create and launch a platform connecting independent hotels with both B2B and B2C audiences. The challenge was to improve the product and ensure its success within Accor and externally.
The collaboration, innovation, and international scope of this project truly expanded my horizons and gave me invaluable insights into the hospitality industry.”
What qualities do you think are essential for a career as a General Manager?
“Hospitality is about developing the right skills—being open, loving people, and embracing challenges.
Each day is unpredictable, and you need to be ready to adapt and solve problems on the spot. Diving in head first to challenges and being people-oriented are key to thriving in this environment.
What I love most is working as part of a team and meeting people from all walks of life. Even decisions made at reception or as a Restaurant Supervisor can help you grow as a person and build the confidence to lead.”
Why is hospitality such a rewarding career path?
“Hospitality is perfect for someone who loves variety, teamwork, and connection. It’s a career that teaches you adaptability, decision-making, and empathy—all of which help you grow both personally and professionally.
For me, it’s about the joy of creating memorable guest experiences and learning something new every day.”
Ready to take the next step in your hospitality journey?
Gábor’s story showcases the incredible potential of a career in hospitality and the meaningful connections you can forge along the way. At Accor, we’re proud to empower individuals like Gábor to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact.
Ready to start your journey? Explore Executive and Hotel Management jobs with Accor today, and unleash your potential in a world of hospitality.
Discover our latest news!
Latest thinking

Teaser
GeneralContent Type
BlogsPublish date
03/27/2025
Summary
At Accor, we believe that a fulfilling career goes hand in hand with making a positive impact on the world. Sustainability in hospitality is at the heart of our values, and we’re proud to be leadin
__original+(1).jpeg)
Teaser
Revenue Management jobsContent Type
BlogsPublish date
03/27/2025
Summary
What is a Hotel Revenue Manager? A hotel revenue manager at Accor is a strategic leader who drives profitability and shapes the future of the hotel’s financial success. This role goes beyond numb
.jpeg)
Teaser
Culinary jobsContent Type
BlogsPublish date
03/27/2025
Summary
Are you passionate about creating unforgettable dining experiences? Do you dream of honing your skills in a dynamic and inspiring kitchen? At Accor, being a Commis Chef is more than just a job—it’s

Teaser
Revenue Management jobsContent Type
Heartists®’ insightsPublish date
03/05/2025
Summary
As a child, I saw a globe and became determined to travel. As a result, I invested much time and energy in learning languages. I graduated from university in tourism economics and as part of that

Teaser
GeneralContent Type
Heartists®’ insightsPublish date
03/04/2025
Summary
At Accor, all our Heartists® are talents in the making. It is essential that each of them can cultivate their curiosity, by exploring new horizons and developing new skills, in order to be the adve

Teaser
Head Office jobsContent Type
BlogsPublish date
02/17/2025
Summary
You might already be familiar with Accor as a pioneer in the hospitality industry. Perhaps you have already enjoyed a stay in one of our lifestyle destinations, or heard about the latest initiative

Content Type
Heartists®’ insightsPublish date
02/11/2025
Summary
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 embra

Teaser
Finance & Audit jobsContent Type
BlogsPublish date
02/11/2025
Summary
At Accor, finance goes beyond numbers—it powers innovation, supports sustainable growth, and enables seamless guest experiences in over 110 countries. A career in finance at Accor opens the door t

Teaser
Tech and Digital jobsContent Type
BlogsPublish date
02/11/2025
Summary
What do you do in an IT job? Looking for a career in Information Technology that combines innovation, global opportunities, and the chance to shape the future of hospitality? At Accor, IT roles g

Teaser
Hotel Management jobsContent Type
Heartists®’ insightsPublish date
01/17/2025
Summary
At Accor, we believe in fostering talent, supporting growth, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. As part of our commitment to career progression, we sat down with Rafael Fröh
Latest jobs
Salary
Location
Fairmont Kea Lani - Maui, Wailea-Makena, United States
Experience Level
Mid-Senior Level
Job Schedule
Full-Time
Brands
FAIRMONT
Job type
Permanent
Locations
Wailea-Makena
Job Category
Food & Beverage
Description
As the General Manager of Pilina, you will be responsible for overseeing all facets of the venue, ensuring its continued business growth, operational excellence, and elevated guest experience. Your le
Reference
9ecbb72a-f65b-4c28-8230-1b658a2f4b24
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Novotel Sydney Darling Square, Sydney, Australia
Experience Level
Entry Level
Job Schedule
Part-Time
Brands
NOVOTEL
Job type
Permanent
Locations
Sydney
Job Category
Procurement
Description
Reporting to our Purchasing Manager you will beResponsible for receiving and dispensing stock throughout the Hotel and loading dock.You will need to maintain an accurate inventory and record of Hotel
Reference
4f2e9083-e449-4d7f-99c8-deff492b6708
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Raffles Singapore, Singapore
Experience Level
Executive
Job Schedule
Full-Time
Brands
RAFFLES
Job type
Permanent
Locations
Singapore
Job Category
Rooms
Description
The position is responsible to act as the point of reference for guests who need assistance or information. The Concierge Supervisor understands guests’ needs and provides them with personalised solut
Reference
be44377c-7b5c-4426-b008-54e15151ebe8
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Qantas Lounges by Accor - Sydney, Mascot, Australia
Experience Level
Associate
Job Schedule
Full-Time
Brands
ACCOR
Job type
Permanent
Locations
Mascot
Job Category
Culinary
Description
We are looking for Full Time - Commis Chef to join our fast pace working environment to provide high quality customer service to our guests at our Sydney International Lounges.Our Commis Chefs provide
Reference
fdfda61c-3ad0-47e3-ad43-7b625812c798
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Qantas Lounges by Accor - Sydney, Mascot, Australia
Experience Level
Entry Level
Job Schedule
Full-Time
Brands
ACCOR
Job type
Permanent
Locations
Mascot
Job Category
Culinary
Description
We are looking for Full Time - Cook to join our fast pace working environment to provide high quality customer service to our guests at our Sydney International Lounges. Our Cook provides service betw
Reference
30801aa5-58dc-4581-b92b-8a86edd4e8e0
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Fairmont Waterfront, Vancouver, Canada
Experience Level
Entry Level
Job Schedule
Part-Time
Brands
FAIRMONT
Job type
Temporary
Locations
Vancouver
Job Category
Rooms
Description
What you will be doing:The knowledge of a great Concierge is the expectation of our Guests when staying at Fairmont Waterfront. Your ability to anticipate Guests’ needs and make informed suggestions w
Reference
4291d347-4c30-4cac-8817-0b37ca7ce8bb
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Fairmont Grand Del Mar, San Diego, United States
Experience Level
Associate
Job Schedule
Full-Time
Brands
FAIRMONT
Job type
Permanent
Locations
San Diego
Job Category
Culinary
Description
Responsibilities: Plan, organize, control and direct the work of colleagues responsible for preparation of sweet items, pastries, cakes, ice creams, sorbets, fruit compotes, breads, chocolates, and sh
Reference
25139ac0-d114-4b29-a60a-3343a77a4236
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort, Noosa Heads, Australia
Experience Level
Mid-Senior Level
Job Schedule
Full-Time
Brands
ACCOR
Job type
Permanent
Locations
Noosa Heads
Job Category
Rooms
Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and dynamic Director of Guest Experience to lead our guest services team and ensure every guest enjoys a seamless and unforgettable experience. This role requires a p
Reference
b69d3f49-758d-4570-876b-044166bbba1a
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Novotel Auckland Ellerslie, Auckland, New Zealand
Experience Level
Entry Level
Job Schedule
Part-Time
Brands
NOVOTEL
Job type
Permanent
Locations
Auckland
Job Category
Rooms
Description
•Deliver a high standard of guest experience through check in and out check out services•Embrace technology with our PMS system•Collaborate with team members to foster the art of responsible hospitali
Reference
3bf017c7-baa5-4e38-acf7-fd4c59e0a88e
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, United States
Experience Level
Director
Job Schedule
Full-Time
Brands
SOFITEL
Job type
Permanent
Locations
Los Angeles
Job Category
Food & Beverage
Description
Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve budgeted revenue and net operating income goals for the banquet departmentCollaborate closely with Sales and Events teams to exceed guest expectations
Reference
cc80bf17-1ba0-4b01-9b68-152c63b0621d
Expiry Date
01/01/0001