Interview with Audrey Saade (IMHI 2009), Vice President Revenue Management Europe at Accor. Audrey is our AAIMHI Ambassador for London.

AAIMHI: What do you remember from your time at IMHI?

Audrey: I reflect on my time at IMHI with great fondness. It offered the right balance between work and play and has shaped my career for the best. 

There are many memories that I can list from my time at IMHI. 

On one hand, the people. IMHI is where I met some of my closest friends, business contacts and acted as a pillar to get me where I am.

On the other hand, the many challenges we faced on business assignments. My favourite of which was the end of year business project groups which gave us the opportunity to work on a real life case study all while socialising with other students, opening up our minds to different perceptions.  

Lastly, I truly enjoyed participating in the 4L Trophy race. From working on the brochure to pitching companies and to the race itself, this was an unforgettable experience. As my motto on my IMHI 4L Trophy T-shirt read, “sleeping is a waste of time” and at the time it was very true! I would take in as much as possible and these years were very formative.  

AAIMHI: How did you end up working in Hospitality?

Audrey: Pure accident! I do not come from a family of hoteliers but if I had to trace it back, this is where I would start. Growing up in Asia, we travelled often to meet up with family and close relatives. I remember being impressed by the warmth and the welcome that we received in many of the countries that we visited. People sparked my enthusiasm for hospitality. 

As part of my Bachelor degree, I completed various internships and roles as bar assistant manager, guest relations and receptionist in Croatia, Hong Kong and France.

I however wanted to consolidate my skills and grow my responsibilities, and went on to join IMHI on the Apprenticeship program. That is how I began my career in Revenue Management. 

AAIMHI: How did the MBA at IMHI help you in your career development?

 Audrey: The variety of courses taught at IMHI combined with the diverse background of my fellow students, made me realise how wide the hospitality industry is. 

Going into IMHI, my knowledge of the field was limited to hotels and restaurants. Going out, I realised it also touched technology, consumer, product, the travel industry…

I want to credit the school and the teachers for selecting topics and delivering classes that exposed us to different trades and were directly applicable in the field. 

I have been with Accor for the past 12 years, which for me is a testament to the company that has learned to listen to its talent. 

During my time at Accor, we have gone through various transformations, including centralising our UK Revenue Management department, acquiring and on-boarding new brands, merging hubs and teams. The training received at IMHI gives us the tools to navigate through changes and teaches you the benefit of leading a diverse team.    

AAIMHI: What would be your recommendations to the new students joining the program?

Audrey: Never assume you know something and always keep an open mindset. The perspective that both teachers and students will give you at IMHI is extremely enriching and it is something that can be directly applied to your working life. 

Use your time at IMHI to test and experiment. It is a safe environment to make mistakes. 

Take the opportunity to grow your network, among your peer group, alumni and professionals that work in companies in which you have an interest. 

AAIMHI: Have you hired IMHI?

Audrey: Yes! Yes! And Yes! I believe in the program and the strong work ethics that it is promoting.

AAIMHI: Thank you for all you do to keep our alumni network alive and active in the UK, Audrey!