Jean Pierre, Pools and Water park manager at BTC surfs with the tide

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: One of the most exciting locations at the Beaches Turks and Caicos resort for families is the waterpark. Managing the waterpark and the pools can be a daunting task for any leader, but for Jean Pierre, a 24-year veteran with the resort, this opportunity to lead some of the most dedicated team members, is an inspiring task.

Pierre, who started his career with the company in April 1999 has become a master of his craft. Having prior swimming experiences, this boat captain and father of two, credits his growth in the industry to his leaders through the years and the dynamic structure of the company which allows for personal and professional development.

“All that I have learned in this department can be credited to the guidance of Michael Clarke, Sandals Resorts International’s corporate director of watersports. He has been the leader who saw my potential and has helped in guiding my progress in this field,” said Pierre. He continued, “Whoever enters this company and shows the right attitude to learn and grow, will become successful. In any area of the industry, an important part of your success is the team around you.”

“I started as a line staff and with training and the requisite certifications, I was promoted to supervisor before being named manager of one of the most dynamic departments. I lead an equally dynamic set of team members who consistently strive to give their best and ensure our visitors enjoy their vacations with us,” Pierre added.

Waterpark supervisor and senior team member in the department, Jacquelin Pierre, lauded his manager for his leadership, “As a team, we can always depend on Jean to find a creative way to address any issue. His knowledge of guest-relations is commendable.”

General Manager, James McAnally noted, “Jean is the consummate leader who understands how to provide the most comfortable work environment. He has an eye for detail in seeing to his department’s operation and his open-door leadership style is one that makes him approachable to his team. Jean’s growth has also shown the perfect combination of experience and training. With each new training course available for leaders, Jean is usually one of the first to get registered which allows him to be empowered and in turn, he readily empowers his team.”

In reflecting on his growth and development within the hospitality industry, Pierre shared that he believes a leader should be firm and fair in their interactions with team members. “For the young professionals who have an interest in exploring hospitality as a means to further their own talents, I am confident Beaches Turks and Caicos is the most ideal place to start. My advice is to have the right attitude and to be open-minded and prepared to learn something new each day. Have short, medium and long term plans as you grow, and ensure that you value and appreciate each member of the team,” Pierre noted.

“My life at Beaches is like that of a surfboard. Wherever a challenge has presented itself, I have been able to navigate them successfully, as I rely on the training and support that I have received. I remain committed to this resort because the opportunities for growth are there for each team member at every level of the organisation,” Pierre concluded.

Jean Pierre, who is also a certified Lifeguard Instructor is encouraging prospective employees who have a passion for swimming, to take up the offer and jump-start their career through employment at Beaches Turks and Caicos.