Hotelier Of The World Winner: Maria Zec In The Moment

Among many other things, it is clear that Maria Zec is loyal, trustworthy, humble, collaborative, meticulous and goal-oriented – many of the traits that drive a great hotelier needs to succeed.

There is no sitting on high in an office for this hands-on, highly communicative leader. “I’m a participative GM – the one that sets the tone for the entire hotel and not one that sits in the office and points,” explained the understated leader who is also known as being demanding but fair as she leads The Peninsula Chicago. “You have to show people what they need to do and lead by example.”

It is that simple and honest approach that has earned her the respect of her team. It is also why no one is surprised to see Zec help clean tables, in the kitchen working with room service, or even in a guest room to help turn a room. “People respect that, and I don’t do it to try to earn their respect,” Zec said matter of factly. “I do it because they need help and I’m there to help get the job done.”

That determination, along with a natural gift to manage and develop people, has guided Zec for the past 20 years as she carries on in her greatest and longest role as managing director of The Peninsula Chicago, which since 2007 has included regional vice president for the Hong Kong-based luxury brand hotels in New York City and at the Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California. Zec also sits on the group management board of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, the organization’s management and operations decision-making authority.