Interview with Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale
J-1 Interview Sessions Around the World
Nestled along the southeastern coast of Florida, where the waters of the Atlantic Ocean meet the Intracoastal Waterway, lies a city that blends vibrant urban living with the laid-back allure of coastal paradise. Fort Lauderdale, often referred to as the "Venice of America," beckons visitors from all around the world with its famous beaches, cultural richness, and maritime charm.
Four Seasons Hotel And Residences Fort Lauderdale stands as an emblem of luxury, sophistication, and unparalleled hospitality in Fort Lauderdale. This luxury 5-star resort invites visitors into a world where impeccable service meets breathtaking oceanfront views and promises a mix of modern opulence and timeless elegance.
In the dynamic hospitality industry, career opportunities are available for those eager to embark on a journey of cultural exchange, and professional and personal growth. The J-1 Intern and Trainee Programs provide opportunities for international candidates to gain hands-on experience in the United States, enhancing their professional and personal skills, but also experiencing cultural diversity, meeting new people, traveling, and exploring cultural activities.
International Trainee Network & Odyssey International Exchange currently have J-1 Hospitality Interns and Trainees who are enrolled in a program with the iconic Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale. On this occasion, we took the opportunity to organize an exclusive interview with Kenneniah Ruby, the experienced and passionate People & Culture Manager, from the host company.
With a passion for nurturing talent and promoting diversity, Kenneniah Ruby has been instrumental in overseeing the J-1 Intern and Trainee Programs and shared with us invaluable insights from the programs with Four Seasons. As you will find out from the interview below, Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale is committed to creating an environment that transcends borders and provides opportunities for growth in an environment that fosters diversity.
We extend our gratitude to Kenneniah Ruby for participating in the interview. Let’s step into the world of professional development and cultural exchange at Four Seasons with this exclusive interview:
1. How does the J-1 Intern & Trainee Program align with your company’s values and mission?
Four Seasons is powered by our people. We are a collective of individuals who crave to become better, to push ourselves to new heights and to treat each other as we wish to be treated in return. Our team members around the world create amazing experiences for our guests, residents, and partners through a commitment to luxury with genuine heart.
We know that the best way to enable our people to deliver these exceptional guest experiences is through a world-class employee, interns, and trainees experience and company culture. Culture has always been a key pillar at Four Seasons and is core to who we are. We pride ourselves on creating a fun and supportive environment where our people are motivated to be their very best: where radical empathy, creative bravery and celebrating individuality are at the forefront.
The J-1 Visa program enriches the diversity of our company, allowing us to benefit from the knowledge, skills, and unique personalities from its participants. The global tapestry of our organization allows for J-1 Participants to leave a lasting mark on the organization, and many participants can transition to Four Seasons properties in their native countries, allowing them to seamlessly continue employment with Four Seasons.
2. What do you look for in a J-1 Intern or Trainee when recruiting?
When recruiting interns and trainees, we seek individuals who are passionate about hospitality, deliver genuine service from the heart, and are willing to learn and grow. Understanding the unique experience that J-1 Interns have when transitioning to a foreign country, we value adaptability and initiative.
3. What kind of training and development opportunities does Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale provide to J-1 Interns & Trainees?
Four Seasons provides regular, ongoing training and development opportunities to all employees, including J-1 Interns & Trainees. Training is conducted on a variety of topics including but not limited to:
- Luxury service standards
- Ethical and safe business practices
- Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
- Wellbeing education
4. How does Four Seasons facilitate the integration of J-1 Exchange Visitors into the team and the wider community?
Four Seasons encourages the building of professional relationships amongst employees through regular opportunities to connect both in the workplace and outside of the workplace with social gatherings, volunteer opportunities, and departmental meetings.
Our property hosts bi-monthly employee celebrations in which employees, interns and trainees from all departments are encouraged to attend, share food together, and celebrate each other. We also host activities partnering with local non-profit organizations monthly that are optional, but a great way to get involved in the greater community.
5. Could you share a significant moment from the program that impacted the J-1 Interns & Trainees?
This past year, in the spirit of encouraging diversity, inclusion, and belonging, we allowed our J-1 Culinary program participants to design a menu and produce a special meal for all employees highlighting cuisine from their home country.
We supported their passionate efforts by providing themed décor and entertainment. Our J-1 Participants were so honored to see their culture featured and were proud to provide to their fellow colleagues.
6. What feedback have you received from J-1 participants about their experience with your company?
Our J-1 Interns & Trainees have shared that the experience at Four Seasons has helped them develop their professional skills, learn about American culture, and allowed them to develop authentic friendships that will carry with them throughout their career.
J-1 Intern & Trainee Programs In The United States
Participating in a J-1 Intern or Trainee Program in Hospitality or Culinary Arts provides a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are seeking to gain valuable international experience, immerse yourself in a different culture, or get out of your comfort zone, this program provides a platform for endless possibilities.
From enhancing your skills in F&B, Rooms Division, Culinary Arts or Pastry to fostering lifelong connections, traveling, and experiencing American culture, the BridgeUSA J-1 Program opens doors to a world of exploration and development.
Frequently, there are opportunities for J-1 Intern and Trainee Programs with Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts in the United States for interested individuals. We invite you to explore the available opportunities on our website.
By registering for a program with us, you position yourself to receive timely updates on new opportunities and ensure that your profile is prepared for potential interviews. Remember to register for a program well in advance and reach out to an ITN Representative for assistance. To register for a program, please fill out the application form here. Our ITN Representatives will assist you with the registration process.