Rising Stars: Meet Freddy Burch of North Atlanta Rural

Today we’d like to introduce you to Freddy Burch.

Freddy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have been in the Hospitality business for over 50 years. My first job at the age of 14 was for Days Inn, Brunswick GA as a Busboy in the dining room. At age 17 I was hired at the Ramada Inn as a Front Desk Clerk. When I turned 24, I moved to Florida and accepted a Front Office Manager position for Sawgrass Golf Resort in Ponte Vedra Beach. My first GM position was for Hampton Inn, Cumming, GA and I worked for Hilton for 25 years. I am currently General Manager for a Holiday Inn Express & Suites in the North Georgia Mountains.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I have always enjoyed Hospitality. To this day, there are new and exciting challenges which allows me to think outside of the box for mutually amicable solutions. Just when you think you have “heard it all” you’re faced with a new situation in which you can learn.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have always been “Old school”. I feel you must always offer clean and maintained guest rooms and public areas and offer fast, friendly and sincere service. It appears to me, that most service-oriented businesses in today’s world have forgotten the basics I mentioned previously. It is my belief that if you maintain a clean and attractive product coupled with top-notch service; this will set you apart from your competitors. The thing I am most proud of are my colleagues, my staff, we all share the same goals and they are dedicated to making sure our guests are made to feel welcomed, comfortable and satisfied.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I have been fortunate to work with some amazing and knowledgeable Managers during my career. I have learned many best practices from them and some on my own. I feel it is my duty to mentor my staff and share these learnings to help make them better and more rounded Hospitality Professionals.

Pricing:

• Market Demand
• Competitor Pricing
• Saturation
• Occupancy levels
• Special Events

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/find-hotels/select-roomrate