Evolving Hospitality: Tradition, Technology, and the Future with Joost Heymeijer

In this 5 Star Conversation with Joost Heymeijer from Toast Hospitality Advisory, we explored his distinguished career and philosophy in the hospitality industry. Joost began his journey at 17, driven by a fascination with the intricacies of hospitality. His career highlights include 12 years with Hilton International, developing from an idea and then managing Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort, and serving as Senior VP of Global In-Flight Catering at Emirates. Joost's approach emphasises the importance of a positive, HR-driven culture and servant leadership, valuing simplicity and the genuine care that defines true hospitality.

Joost's passion for hospitality was shaped by his humble upbringing and influential mentors like Paul Borchert, who instilled in him the values of hard work and thoroughness. He recounted a formative experience where Paul, despite his senior role, chose to become the innkeeper of the Airport Hilton in Amsterdam, insisting on high standards and genuine service. Joost also credited Tim Clark of Emirates for inspiring his innovative approach to integrating Middle Eastern and Australian hospitality at Wolgan Valley. These mentors taught Joost the importance of authenticity, dedication, and the power of genuine human connections.

Throughout our conversation, Joost stressed the balance between traditional hospitality values and modern technology. He highlighted the role of AI and data analytics in enhancing guest experiences while cautioning against losing the personal touch that defines the industry. Joost advocated for leaders to be present and engaged, ensuring that technology serves to augment rather than replace human interactions. His advice for those entering the industry is to embrace continuous learning, teamwork, and the desire to make others feel valued, underlining that true hospitality is about genuine service and creating memorable experiences.

#HospitalityIndustry #GuestExperience #FutureOfHospitality #InnovationInHospitality #CareerAdvice

Bio - Joost Heymeijer - Inn-Keeper
Joost is a globally recognised hospitality and tourism leader with a distinguished career spanning over 30 years in senior positions across four continents. His journey began at the age of 17, learning the intricacies of hospitality from the ground up.

His extensive career includes 12 years of Food and Beverage Management with Hilton International, catering management with Sodexo, the design and development of Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, SVP Global Inflight Catering at Emirates and CEO at Tattarang’s Z1Z Hospitality.

He is a passionate advocate for the hospitality industry, emphasising a positive HR-driven culture and championing the practice of Servant Leadership. His philosophy is encapsulated in the belief that the beauty of intuitive hospitality lies in its execution’s simplicity.

Podcast Contact Details
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendongranger
Phone +61 2 8317 4000
Phone 1300 503 657 (Australia only)
www.Technology4Hotels.com.au