Moore the merrier after winning Manager of the Year

By Grantlee Kieza OAM, Industry Reporter

Craig Moore is a relative newcomer to the management rights industry, yet he has already been recognised as Manager of the Year at the recent Best of Tourism Awards.

The Resly industry awards, based on peer nominations, are a testament to the remarkable achievements of winners like Craig, whose contributions are highly regarded by others in the industry.

Craig manages the stunning Air on Broadbeach for the ULTIQA Hotels and Resorts Group on the Gold Coast and has also made a notable impact in Noosa, where his involvement with surf lifesaving has even extended to saving lives.

You're a relative newcomer to the accommodation industry?

That’s correct. I’ve been the manager at ULTIQA Air on Broadbeach for two and a half years. While I had some hospitality and hotel experience earlier in my career, the level of responsibility in this role is significantly greater.

How did your new role come about?

It was through an unexpected opportunity. I met Mark Henry, CEO of the ULTIQA Hotels and Resorts Group, who needed to fill a general manager position at short notice. After consulting with our Executive General Manager, Sue Fairweather, he offered me the role. At the time, I had been working in financial services for 17 years, so transitioning to this industry was a significant shift — but one I have found highly rewarding.

Had you considered entering the management rights industry before?

Yes, it was something I had explored about five years before joining ULTIQA. I previously held a senior role in business and private banking at the Commonwealth Bank, and after leaving in 2017, I considered purchasing management rights. However, another financial services role presented itself, and I delayed those plans. When I joined the ULTIQA Group in May 2022, it felt like the right time, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the journey so far. ULTIQA manages seven properties in Australia and one in Fiji, and its parent company, Beekman Group, owns and manages approximately 50 properties in South Africa.

Could you tell us more about Air on Broadbeach?

Certainly. ULTIQA Air on Broadbeach is a mixed-use building that includes owneroccupiers, holiday apartments, and some permanent rentals. My responsibilities encompass managing the resort, building operations and overseeing all staff, including housekeeping, maintenance, and front desk.

The property, built in 2006, has been managed by ULTIQA since 2010. It enjoys an excellent location directly opposite Kurrawa Surf Club and on top of the Oasis Shopping Centre, making it a popular destination for interstate visitors, particularly from Sydney and Melbourne.

To win the Resly Best of Tourism, Manager of the Year Award so early in your accommodation career is an impressive achievement. How did you accomplish this?

I’ve been fortunate to work with a supportive team, particularly under the guidance of Sue Fairweather, whose industry expertise has been invaluable. My previous experience in business and private banking equipped me with skills in relationship management, financial oversight, and strategic planning — all of which are critical in this role.

Managing relationships with contractors, owners, and the body corporate committee requires both technical knowledge and interpersonal skills.

Additionally, my background as a certified financial planner with qualifications in business management and marketing has enabled me to navigate the financial complexities of the role, such as trust account management, effectively. I strive to create an environment where staff feel recognised and valued, which contributes significantly to the success of the property.

You had an interesting career before transitioning to management rights. Could you share more about your background?

Certainly. I grew up in Sydney’s western suburbs and began my career as a long-haul flight attendant with Qantas. After earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of New England, I transitioned into banking and financial services, working in Queensland from 1993 until 2022. These roles provided a strong foundation in leadership, finance, and relationship management, all of which have been instrumental in my current position.

You also have a strong connection to Noosa. Could you tell us more about that?

I moved to Noosa in 2009 to embrace a sea change, my daughter, Gemma, who is now 24, had already been involved with the Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club before the move. She progressed through the Nippers program, earned her bronze medallion at 15, and competed in surfboat rowing for the club before moving to the city for university.

Inspired by her involvement, I joined the surf club as well, earning my bronze medallion and beginning patrols. I was quickly appointed as a patrol captain, a role I’ve proudly held for 15 years. Additionally, I’ve served on the club’s Board of Directors, initially for four years before COVID and, more recently, after being invited to return. I currently hold the position of Director of Finance, which allows me to contribute to the club’s ongoing success.

Have you performed rescues during your time with the surf club?

Yes, I have participated in several rescues and resuscitations over the years. Thankfully, Noosa is generally a safe beach, but vigilance is always essential. My involvement with the surf club has been deeply rewarding, both in terms of community service and personal growth.

Do you see yourself returning to Noosa in the future?

Noosa holds a special place in my heart, and I would love to retire there eventually.

ULTIQA Air on Broadbeach is undergoing a major refurbishment soon. Could you elaborate?

Yes, the body corporate is planning a comprehensive refurbishment of the common areas, including the barbecues, pool, and reception. While managing such projects presents challenges, it is highly rewarding to oversee enhancements that benefit the property for residents and guests.

What do you see as the most rewarding aspect of your role?

My daily commute is just seven storeys, and I couldn’t be happier about that!

Transitioning into this role has been an excellent career move, and I’m thoroughly enjoying it. What I find most rewarding is the opportunity to create exceptional experiences for our guests and team while contributing to the success of a property as iconic as ULTIQA Air on Broadbeach. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see our team’s hard work reflected in positive guest feedback and tangible operational improvements.

Craig Moore’s journey

Is a testament to the power of transferable skills and the importance of strong leadership. His quick rise to success highlights his adaptability and dedication to excellence.

With such a strong foundation, it’s clear that his career in management rights is just getting started, and the future holds even greater opportunities.