Her Story
About Sarai
Sarai Jacko serves as Regional Director of Training and Development for Southern California at Fairmont Century Plaza. In this role, she develops training blueprints at the property level and infuses them across the region. She began her career in 2012 at the Ritz-Carlton J.W. Marriott in downtown Los Angeles, where she developed a passion for luxury hospitality. Jacko earned her degree from La Sierra University, where she played collegiate basketball and cultivated strong time management skills. Her professional focus lies in learning and development under the human resources umbrella, emphasizing anticipatory service and excellence in guest experiences. She is a member of the American Hotel and Lodging Association, from which she received the Trailblazer Award, the SHRM Association, and she founded a luxury hospitality learning and development chapter for properties in her competitive set. Jacko attributes her success to her parents, immigrants from India and Mexico who modeled leadership through service and servanthood while earning advanced degrees in English as a second language.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sarai
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my parents. Both were immigrants, my father from India and my mother from Mexico. They got advanced degrees in English as a second language while running a church, leading through service and servanthood. I try to mimic them every day.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Always say yes. In hospitality things change quickly and the hotel never closes. Saying yes to initiatives gives you inside the operation. Also, never stop learning.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Always say yes and shoot for the stars. Even if imposter syndrome creeps in, just try it. The worst that can happen is you pivot. Hospitality is a huge ecosystem with many disciplines, so find what makes you happy.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
AI is a big component. It helps with processes and efficiencies but hospitality is a person-to-person service industry where emotional connection matters. The challenge is finding the balance between revenue generation and that human connection.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Respect is really high on the list. Excellence would be another. Leading with empathy is also key, especially in hospitality which is emotionally driven. Making a positive impact and memorable stay for guests is important.
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