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Fascinated by the hotel business since she was a child in southern Germany, Regina Baumberger sought opportunities to gain experience in the business while in university through a work study program. Upon graduating with her Master’s degree from Munich Business School in International Business, including a semester at Regent's University in London, Regina started at the front desk at the iconic The Dolder Grand in Zurich, Switzerland. After learning more about the clientele of the hotel, she moved into the marketing department where she supports the team with PR, online and offline marketing and design. Regina shares her journey and offers tips to recent college grads about working in hotel marketing.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small village in the South of Germany, called Oberammergau. We’re famous for our “Passionspiele” (Passion Play) that takes place every 10 years, and I had the chance to get involved in this three times. First, as a baby, a few months old and then 2010 and 2022. I was part of the moving picture scenes and as part of the crowd people.
Hang on, I need to learn more about the Passion Play...I've never heard of it.
Nearly 400 years ago, the plague raged in many parts of Europe and did not spare my hometown of Oberammergau. So, in 1633 the Oberammergau villagers promised to perform the suffering, death and resurrection of Christ every tenth year, and in exchange no one was to die of the plague anymore. As the history goes, the villagers were answered by God and in 1634 the first Passion Play took place. The promise has been kept until today. The 42nd Passion Play successfully ran from 14 May to 2 October 2022 (I was in this one!) after having to be postponed in 2020 due to Covid. Though it only happens every ten years, the play is a great way for our community to come together.
Wow, that is really cool. Switching back to hospitality, what was your first job?
My first job in the hospitality industry was during my time at university: I worked for Monteviva GmbH, a company that manages and operates hotels. This is where I got my first glimpse of the world of hospitality and what led me to focus on this field. I worked as a student trainee and supported the team in marketing, project planning and doing business analysis. After graduating from university, I started at The Dolder Grand as a front desk agent.
What drew you to hospitality?
I’ve always been very interested in the industry because it’s all about making people happy and contributing to an unforgettable experience. Moreover, I love to travel and see new cities and hotels. Honestly, I’ve been fascinated by hotels in general for as long as I can remember, and especially by the parts behind the scenes.
How did you get into the marketing side of the business?
I was interested in marketing first: I studied international business with a specialisation in marketing and luxury management. Here at The Dolder Grand, I started at the front desk so I could get to know the hotel, the guests, and the experience first-hand. Switching into a role that aligned with my passion, one where I can combine marketing with a luxury setting, was a great opportunity.
Tell us about your role at The Dolder Grand now, what are your primary responsibilities?
Right now, I’m a Marketing Associate here at The Dolder Grand. I support the team with PR, online and offline marketing and design on a daily basis. Alongside that, I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to become the project lead for our Dolder Sports marketing activities.
What do you like best about your job?
I love that my job is so varied. I like the mix of working with people and being creative. At our hotel, in particular, we have the chance to dream big and think up new exclusive and extraordinary ways of making the hotel even more enjoyable for our guests. This makes every day very special and exciting. On top of that, I like working with my supportive colleagues in my team.
What advice would you give other young graduates looking to get into marketing?
The best tip I can give is to always be open to new opportunities and people, and to maintain and grow the relationships within your network. Also, to follow your passion in the field and continuously expand your knowledge and skills.
It's not been that long since you are out of school, but what advice would you give to your younger self?
My advice for my younger self is to not be afraid of taking calculated risks, as they can lead to personal and professional growth.
What’s next for you? And what are your longer-term aspirations?
My goals going forward are to continuously develop my personal and professional skills, to advance in the luxury sector and take on a leadership role in the future. Furthermore, I want to continue building on new opportunities and being open to them.
Quickfire with Regina
What is your morning routine?
Usually, I start my day by waking up as early as possible and then doing some exercise, like a Pilates class or some running, so I can start the morning with a clear head and get ready for the day. Afterwards, I love to get my coffee and a smoothie bowl and then head to work.
What is your go-to self-care activity?
When it comes to self-care, I think it is important to pay attention to your mental and physical health, to implement a regular exercise routine and to take down-time, for example at a spa or in the nature.
What do you do for fun outside of work?
n my free time, I love being active. I like to discover new cities, explore new restaurants here in Zurich and meet up with my friends. In winter, I like going skiing or ice skating, and in summer, the best thing to do is to jump into Lake Zurich.
What are you reading right now?
Workwise, I can recommend the book “Conscious Capitalism” by John Mackey & Raj Sisodia. The book is a really interesting deep-dive into building a sustainable company from the inside out. But in my free time, I love to flick through fashion and lifestyle magazines, like VOGUE, Fallstaff or AD.