Six Sandals leaders earn hospitality diplomas

Observer News Desk

Six managers and supervisors at Sandals Grande Antigua have completed a 16-week hospitality leadership programme aimed at strengthening Caribbean talent in the region’s tourism industry.

The Diploma in Hospitality Leadership Programme was delivered through Sandals Corporate University in partnership with Accelerating Leaders and Florida International University.

The graduates are Information Technology Manager Ryan Casimir, Red Lane Spa Manager Chrystel Baker, Restaurant Manager Dale Thomas, Housekeeping Supervisor RoseMarie Taylor, Stores Supervisor Odile Dangleben and Bar Supervisor Celia Harrigan.

They recently travelled to St Vincent and the Grenadines for the final phase of the programme, which required them to complete a capstone project combining academic study, practical leadership development and collaborative problem-solving.

The course covered business analytics, financial management, coaching and mentoring, influential communication, and leadership strategies and tactics. Participants were also required to identify a major operational challenge, research possible solutions and develop a practical implementation plan.

Baker said the programme encouraged her to look beyond the daily responsibilities of managing a department and consider the type of leader she wants to become.

‘I gained a deeper appreciation for strategic thinking, effective communication and the importance of developing the people around me,’ she said. ‘It has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I am excited to take what I have learned back to my team and continue growing as a leader.’

Thomas said the practical focus made the training especially valuable because the lessons related directly to challenges encountered in resort departments.

‘The lessons were not just theoretical; they encouraged us to analyse challenges, understand the reasons behind our decisions and think about how we can improve the operation while still putting our team members and our guests at the centre,’ he said.

Harrigan described the programme as both a professional and personal milestone that strengthened her confidence and leadership skills.

‘There were moments when the workload was challenging, but those experiences taught me resilience, discipline and the value of working together,’ she said. ‘I am leaving this programme with greater confidence in my abilities and a renewed commitment to being the kind of leader who inspires my team, listens to their ideas and creates opportunities for them to grow.’

Sandals said the programme forms part of its continuing investment in professional and academic development for Caribbean employees. The company said its partnership with Florida International University gives team members access to internationally recognised academic expertise and training tailored to the changing demands of hospitality leadership.

The six graduates have returned to their respective roles at Sandals Grande Antigua, where they are expected to apply their new skills to the development of their departments and the wider resort operation.