Success Stories success starts here

Kara Nguyen's journey in the hospitality industry began during her high school years, working alongside her passionate and disciplined chef father at a restaurant. Despite the unexpected loss of her father during her senior year, Kara's admiration for the industry led her to pursue a degree in Hospitality Management at Iowa State. During college, Kara started her hotel career as a front desk agent at a limited-service hotel, where she gained hands-on experience in various operations, from breakfast preparation to troubleshooting door locks. After graduating and relocating to the Bay Area, she became a Front Office Manager, overseeing two front desks and an airport shuttle team. Eager to broaden her expertise, Kara transitioned to an accounting coordinator position at the San Mateo Marriott through Evo. With the guidance and support of Sam Sattavorn, she thrived in the role and later embarked on a task force assignment at Villa Florence in San Francisco. Building on her success, Kara assumed the position of Director of Finance at Hotel Adagio, navigating the challenges of the pandemic while also supporting other hotels through task force assignments. In early 2021, she joined the Hotel Citrine Campus as the campus Director of Finance, grateful for the opportunity to be part of the opening team. Throughout her journey with Evo, Kara has been fortunate to work alongside incredible leaders and receive unwavering support every step of the way.

Julie Nguyen's journey in hospitality began at a young age, starting her first job at 16 as a bagger and shopping cart collector at a local Schnucks store. Inspired by her older sister's success in the industry and her parents' involvement in the service sector, Julie pursued a career in hospitality. Joining Evo in July 2019, she has remained in the finance department, taking on various roles that have allowed her to grow and explore different properties. Starting at San Mateo Marriott as a Finance Coordinator, Julie then became part of the opening team at AC Santa Rosa Downtown as a Finance Manager before relocating to Element Santa Clara. She later joined AC Santa Clara and AC Sunnyvale, and currently finds herself working at TETRA. Julie values the advice she has received along the way, particularly the reminder not to take shortcuts. She credits her growth and guidance to mentors such as Sam Sattavorn, Kara Nguyen, and the many General Managers she has had the opportunity to work with. Her favorite guiding principle is to always follow through on commitments, as it builds trust and credibility within the team. Julie finds solace and relaxation by engaging in puzzles, having completed an impressive 2,000-piece puzzle. Offering advice to those early in their careers, she encourages individuals not to hesitate in reaching out for help by picking up the phone. Julie's bold decision to move to California despite a signed lease in Iowa reflects her adventurous spirit and commitment to personal growth.

Justin Landeis has achieved remarkable growth and success in the hospitality industry, starting as a food runner and dishwasher at a turn and burn steakhouse in Mandan, ND, at the age of 17. Inspired by the rising popularity of the Food Network and the mainstream appeal of being a chef, he attended Arizona Culinary Institute after college. Following culinary school, Justin worked at a 4-diamond restaurant, Lon's at The Hermosa Inn, for 1.25 years, and then spent 4 years at a 1000-room downtown property, Sheraton Grand Phoenix, gradually advancing in the culinary field. After some time at Hotel Adeline as the Food and Beverage Manager/F&B Director, Justin recognized his true passion for hotel finances and requested a transfer into that area of operations. Throughout his journey, he has had the privilege of working under exceptional leaders who have enriched his hotel acumen and leadership skills. Notable mentors include April Mosley, Scott Snofsky, Britt Greene, Taylor Murphy, Gus Laliotis, Jon Eyer, David Swank, and Frank Duffy. Justin's advice for beginners in the industry is to enthusiastically embrace opportunities and say "yes" to new challenges.

Moises Ambriz has experienced notable growth and success throughout his career in the hospitality industry. His journey began as a ride operator at Six Flags Magic Mountain during his junior year of high school, where he discovered his passion for working with guests and the general public. After graduating from high school, Moises joined the US Navy, which played a pivotal role in his personal growth and development, instilling in him qualities such as confidence, strength, resilience, discipline, and resourcefulness. Upon leaving the Navy, he initially joined a small Residence Inn, considering it a temporary job until he found his true calling. However, Moises was captivated by the benefits of working in a hotel, particularly the discounted rooms, which led him to apply for a role with Evolution Hospitality. In July 2016, he joined Evo as the General Manager of Springhill Suites Anaheim Resort/Convention Center after a nerve-wracking interview process. Over the years, Moises has had the opportunity to manage various properties within Evo, including Springhill Suites Anaheim Resort, Doubletree Golf Resort in Palm Springs, and Residence Inn Anaheim Resort. Recently, he was promoted to the role of Campus General Manager for both Residence Inn and Springhill Suites. Moises appreciates the genuine and caring nature of the professionals at Evo and values the company's strong culture. He acknowledges the profound impact of his mentors, including Maxine Dee, his former Regional Director of Operations, who emphasized the importance of caring for the team and staying true to one's values. Working under exceptional leaders like Mark Lewis, Bo Patel, and Scott Roby, Moises has evolved into a successful and passionate leader who embodies Evo's culture.