Career pivots can feel like starting over, but for Rey Amancio, Certified Hospitality Professional, each shift between industry and academe sharpened his skills, deepened his perspective, and made him a more adaptable leader in the world of tourism and hospitality.
“To thrive in this industry, three key skill sets are non-negotiable,” he says. “Interpersonal and communication skills: Whether you’re front-facing with guests or collaborating behind the scenes, the ability to engage with empathy, clarity, and professionalism defines success. Adaptability and resilience: This industry is fast-paced and unpredictable. The ability to remain composed under pressure, adjust to changing demands, and bounce back from setbacks is vital. Attention to detail and service excellence: Hospitality is all about creating memorable experiences. Anticipating guest needs, observing small details, and delivering consistently high service standards make a lasting impression.”
From Industry to Academe
Amancio’s first big pivot took him from a hands-on service environment into the classroom. “I had to adjust from a fast-paced, customer-centric mindset to a more reflective, structured academic environment. Learning how to design curriculum, conduct assessments, and guide young minds required a different kind of patience and precision.”
The pace was different, but so was the type of impact he could make. Instead of focusing on the immediate satisfaction of a guest, his work in academe revolved around shaping the next generation of hospitality professionals.
From Academe Back to Industry
After years in education, he made the jump back to operations—a move that tested both his stamina and his credibility. “Reintegrating into operations meant reactivating my stamina, retraining in tech systems, and proving my relevance. There was also the challenge of re-establishing credibility—showing that I wasn’t just an ‘educator,’ but still had the hands-on, real-time skills to lead in service environments.”
This transition demanded agility. The hospitality industry had evolved since his earlier years, with new technologies, updated service protocols, and changing guest expectations. Amancio approached the shift with the same adaptability he considers essential for any hospitality professional.
Chasing Impact, Not Titles
One piece of advice shaped his career philosophy. “Don’t chase titles—chase impact,” he recalls. “This advice helped me shift my focus from climbing a traditional hierarchy to seeking roles where I could contribute meaningfully, grow, and influence others—whether in a hotel lobby, a classroom, or mentoring others.”
For him, success isn’t about the position on a business card—it’s about the difference you make for guests, colleagues, and the industry as a whole.
What Makes a Standout Professional
Through his varied career, Amancio has developed a clear view of what sets great hospitality professionals apart. “Standout professionals are those who display genuine passion for service—it can’t be faked. Are solution-oriented thinkers, not just task completers. Show leadership potential at any level through initiative, integrity, and team spirit. Demonstrate emotional intelligence—how they deal with guests, handle feedback, and build team morale. Have a strong sense of cultural awareness, which is crucial in a global-facing industry.”
These qualities, he explains, are just as important whether you’re starting out as a front desk associate or managing an entire property.
Resilience and Relevance
Amancio’s ability to move between roles and environments comes down to a willingness to learn and adapt. He has consistently invested in upskilling—embracing leadership training, digital tools, and cross-cultural competencies. “Staying competitive requires continuous learning and a proactive mindset. I make it a point to stay informed about industry trends, new technologies (like AI in guest services), and evolving guest expectations. I invest in upskilling, especially in leadership, digital tools, and cross-cultural competencies. I maintain strong networks—both in industry and academia. Building relationships opens doors and broadens perspectives.”
Lesson for Hospitality Professionals
Amancio’s career path shows that pivots don’t have to derail your momentum—they can make you more versatile and valuable. The key, he says, is to approach every shift with humility, a willingness to re-learn, and a focus on impact rather than status.
Lesson: The hospitality industry rewards those who stay adaptable, keep learning, and remain driven by service excellence—not just by the next promotion.
