Gabriel Horrak - MBA Scholarship Winner and Alumni Success

Tourism, Hotel Management and Operations alumnus and Young Hotelier Award winner, Gabriel Horrak graduated MU Vienna in 2012. Since then he has enjoyed an international career working at such institutions as the Kempinski Hotel Lufthansa Center, Beijing, The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi and the Park Hyatt Hotel, Vienna. Before Gabriel rejoins the MU Family on Kahlenberg as an MBA Scholarship winner, we asked him to describe his role as Rooms Division Manager (Assistant director of Rooms) at Park Hyatt Vienna and how MU Vienna prepared him for his graduate success.

Can you tell us a little bit about your current job and responsibilities?

In my current role I oversee the entire Rooms Division, which consists of the Front Office, Concierge & Bell Team, Reservations, Spa & Gym, Housekeeping and Laundry. Since we do not have a separated call center and guest relations, our Front Office team oversees these areas too. In my current position I ensure operations in all these areas run smoothly, guests are satisfied and financial goals are achieved. It is also my responsibility to complete HR processes such as interviews, feedback talks and budgeting for the upcoming year.

How did studying at MU Vienna help you in your career?

Studying at MU Vienna prepared me with a vast theoretical knowledge of the Tourism and Hospitality industry and gave me insights which helped me understand and tackle various situations during my career faster and easier. From management styles and leadership perspectives to yield management, the foundation was already laid before I even set foot into my first job.

What were the things you valued most when studying at MU Vienna?

Definitely the community atmosphere and the relationship between lecturers and students. Not being treated as a number but as an individual.

Could you sum up your experience at MU Vienna in one sentence?

I could not have chosen a better university for myself.