DDLS 2017 - George Markantonis

DDLS is held every Friday in the fall semester and is also known as “Hotelie Fridays” amongst Cornell students. Freshman Hotel School students make up the majority of the DDLS class but many sophomores and upperclassmen continue to attend because of the valuable lessons DDLS speakers share with students.

On October 27th 2017, George Markantonis was our DDLS speaker. Mr. Markantonis is the President and CEO of The Venetian, The Palazzo Casino Resorts, and The Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Originally from Zimbabwe, Mr. Markantonis started his career in South Africa and has travelled the world from Texas to Florida to Canada to Las Vegas to Dubai to the Bahamas and back to Las Vegas.

Interview Questions:

1. What did you think of today’s DDLS speaker?

2. How did the speakers influence your view on boutique hotels?

3. Is there anything special or significant that Grace Leo mentioned that influenced how you will approach school, internships, or jobs?

4. If you had one question to ask the speakers, what would it be?

Nadine Eenkema Van Dijk ‘21

1. The structure of the presentation with map was really engaging and helped have a ticker throughout the presentation. It made it easier to follow his journey. The way he set up his presentation was engaging as well.

2/ 3. I thought it was interesting how when he was offered a new job, he said yes to the position but explained how his heart wasn’t in it. I think it is important to always say yes to opportunities but it is also essential to make it clear when you are not fully passionate and dedicated to the work.

4. How did his background in South Africa influence his workstyle in different places?

Jenny Bai ‘21

1. Mr. Markantonis was simply amazing. His unique experiences in hotel operations showed the excitement and unexpected happenings in hotels, resorts, casinos, etc. In addition, he shared with us his wisdom that he learned through his many locations and years in the hospitality industry. I learned a lot out of it, and now I’m even more interested in hotel operations.

2. I found his stories interesting and engaging. Whether it be dealing with hackers or simply walking the property, I became enthralled by the activities of hotels and resorts. Mr. Markantonis’ presentation really showed the lighter and fun aspects of hotel operations. I already loved hotels, now I love them even more

3. His eleven “Characteristics for Success” were really good guidelines as to how to approach every opportunity. It is important to follow your heart. Learning to say no, but for the right reason is essential, which I will keep in mind when working and interning.

4. If you could work at one property (of your previous and current locations) for the rest of your career, which one would it be?

Shavonie Victor ‘21

1. I found his story intriguing. He didn't find promotions by applying to a new position, someone always reached out to him. It taught me the importance of having a trustworthy mentor and the power of networking.

2. I think that he helped me to realize that you can't learn everything in a classroom. There are crucial things that you have to experience first hand in order to learn. His stories made me excited to see what eventful experiences are waiting for me.

3. I think that something significant that I took away from Mr. Markantonis would be to let opportunities guide you. Even if it's unexpected or not ideal, you don't know where it may take you. In the future I'll be a bit more of a risk taker.

4. You didn't seem to have a plan, you just went with the flow. How did you know that you would be able to reach your ultimate career goal by taking random positions offered to you?

Steven Wang ‘21

1. I thoroughly enjoyed Mr. Markantonis’ presentation. He was both engaging and genuine, and his story is very unique. Personally, I think he gave one of the best lectures yet.

2. Mr. Markantonis showed truly how global the hotel/casino world is. Hearing him talk about how he was relocated first across the United States, and then halfway around the world, I was impressed by how he was able to gradually attain higher positions. Mr. Markantonis has taught me greater respect and admiration for successful individuals in hotel/casino operations work.

3. Mr. Markantonis demonstrates the value and importance of commitment and hard work in everything you do. Looking towards the future, I hope to bring the same mindset to my internships and jobs.

4. I would love to know more about how Mr. Markantonis’ work-life balance has changed, if at all, throughout his career.

Rohan Tyagi ‘21

1. I think Mr. Markantonis was great as he explored aspects of his career that had relevance to our lives as students searching for careers.

2. He has influenced me to view casino operations as more of a viable option that I can pursue as a career. I learned that there are many aspects of casino operations that allow you to explore your artistic side as well as your business strategy acumen.

3. He has influenced me to see different experiences as opportunities for me to grow. This can take place in internships, extracurriculars, or even jobs

4. How do you think automation will affect casino operations?