Career Journey, Leadership Development, Service, Mentorship, and Communication

Dr. Jeffrey O describes entering hospitality unexpectedly as a front desk agent, progressing through roles including night audit manager, front desk manager, AGM, GM, VP of Operations, COO, and CEO. He explains that he did not grow up expecting to be a leader but discovered leadership through responsibility, studying others, reading extensively, and pursuing PhD studies in the field. He identifies delegation as his greatest leadership challenge, sharing that early in his career he worked “ridiculous hours” because he tried to do everything himself. He reflects on learning to “trust people as much as I should have” and credits introspection for helping him improve.

Service is central to his work, and he emphasizes giving back without personal benefit. He highlights the mission of recognizing hospitality professionals and supporting global education opportunities. Mentorship is another major theme, both through those who guided him and through his own efforts to help others navigate career transitions or industry questions. He also discusses public speaking, advising people not to overthink and to approach it as speaking to “a room of people who love me.” He encourages networking that is genuine rather than transactional and stresses the importance of diversity in leadership.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• ‍“I just fell in love with it, and I can’t think of a better profession.”
• ‍ “I was horrible at delegating.”
• “You should be ashamed to die unless you’ve done something good for humanity.”
• “Don’t be transactional in networking.”
• ‍ “Don’t be so arrogant.”

Closing Reflection

Dr. Jeffrey O’s reflections emphasize humility, continuous learning, and genuine service as foundations of meaningful leadership. He highlights how introspection allows leaders to recognize limitations, grow through mistakes, and rely on the strengths of others. His emphasis on mentorship and giving back reinforces the responsibility leaders have to uplift their communities. He also encourages authenticity, in communication, networking, and personal development. Ultimately, his perspective shows that lasting impact comes from focusing on legacy, compassion, and the ways we improve the lives of others.