Octavia Rodriguez
Octavia Rodriguez is a seasoned Management Consultant at Hospitality Services Group, bringing extensive experience in hospitality management, client services, and event planning. With a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Administration/Management from Mitchell College, she has built a strong foundation in luxury service standards, hotel operations, and team leadership. Octavia has a proven track record of adapting to diverse roles and locations, from front office management at Marriott Hotels to client service representation in the information technology and services industry.
Throughout her career, Octavia has demonstrated exceptional skills in problem-solving, interpersonal communication, and staff development. She has led multiple task force assignments all over the United States, consistently focusing on building trust and ensuring high-quality guest experiences. Her expertise spans Microsoft Office, hotel management, and event coordination, allowing her to deliver impactful results while mentoring team members and fostering professional growth.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Octavia is committed to giving back to the community and supporting the next generation of hospitality leaders. She has served as a judge for DECA Inc., guiding emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in business, marketing, finance, and hospitality. Her dedication, adaptability, and passion for service continue to drive her success and influence across the hospitality industry.
• Bachelors in Hospitality
• Associate of the Quarter 2016
Associate of the Quarter 2016
Issued by Courtyard by Marriott
• DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) – Serves as a judge for competitions (Note: She was previously denied entry as a student
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my adaptability and continuous drive to learn and grow. My strong interpersonal skills and genuine love for meeting new people have allowed me to build lasting connections and thrive in diverse environments. Through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve remained resilient and committed to perseverance. Above all, my passion for travel, service, and making a meaningful impact continues to fuel my dedication to the hospitality industry.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received wasn’t spoken directly, but shown through example — to pursue the path that truly energizes me, even if it’s not the traditional one. I’ve also learned to see rejection not as a setback, but as a catalyst for growth and self-improvement.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the hospitality industry is to never be afraid to start small — every role, no matter how modest, helps build a strong foundation for your future. Stay open to change, because contracts and travel opportunities often lead to unexpected growth and learning experiences. Whenever possible, find ways to balance work and education to keep advancing both personally and professionally. Most importantly, hold firmly to your values, even in fast-paced or union-heavy environments — integrity and authenticity will always set you apart.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the hospitality field today is navigating ongoing staffing shortages and high turnover rates. Operating within union guidelines while maintaining consistent service can also be complex, especially when managing teams across multiple properties. Additionally, frequent travel makes it essential to uphold brand and service standards wherever you go. On the other hand, these challenges create meaningful opportunities. There’s great potential to empower team members through effective training and mentorship, make a positive impact on guests across diverse regions, and grow into long-term leadership roles. For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, these experiences can even lay the groundwork for opening a hospitality agency in the future.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me most in both my work and personal life are honesty, respect, and accountability. I strive to be transparent and trustworthy in all my interactions, treat others with genuine respect, and take responsibility for my actions and decisions. These principles not only shape how I lead and collaborate but also define the integrity I bring to every aspect of my life.
Locations
Hospitality Services Group
Old Saybrook, CT 06475