More than two decades ago Ruth Garnett landed her first job in the hospitality sector as a tour agent at the then Sandals Ocho Rios, now Sandals Grande Riviera. However, it did not take her long to work her way up through various posts, to her now current position of sales manager at Beaches Ocho Rios.

According to Garnett, the training received from working in other departments prepared her extensively for the current position which she has held for the last 12 years.

Throughout the climb in her career, Garnett has worked in front office, guest services, concierge, wedding and sales departments.

“I feel proud being with a company for 20 years; There is a sense of loyalty both in giving and receiving,” a beaming Garnett told the Jamaica Observer North East during a recent interview.

Before entering the hospitality sector, Garnett managed a small store in Ocho Rios and was planning to pursue studies in nursing. However, it was while working at that store that she met a member of the tourism sector, who, impressed with her personality, introduced her to a position at the hotel.

Since then there has been no turning back.

“I have no regrets; none whatsoever,” she said.

Garnett said she has a passion to serve and continues to enjoy her job as she did two decades ago.

“If you don’t have the passion, it does not make sense,” she added.

Garnett explained that for her, working is more than making money but an opportunity to provide a service and being able to grow in the industry.

Although many job offers were made to her over the years, Garnett said she was never willing to give up the job she has performed with much dignity and pride.

Garnett’s hard work and dedication were recently rewarded when the management and staff at Beaches Ocho Rios honoured her for her many years of service.

“I was elated. It was such a surprise. I never ever expected it,” she said appreciatively.

Garnett said she had only mentioned to her general manager in January that she started 20 years ago on that date on the 7:00 am shift and was still working on that schedule, and was therefore, totally caught off-guard by the surprise event held in her honour.

Garnett explained that she was off the property when she received a call informing her of an important meeting she needed to attend. She tried to get someone to fill in for her but the General Manager insisted that she needed to be present.

Dedicated worker that she was, Garnett left what she was doing and returned to the hotel.

“I was moved to tears (at the surprise),” she explained, adding that “It’s a surprise, but it’s a good feeling to know that they recognise you.”

Garnett’s co-workers who celebrated her achievement believe she has been a tremendous asset to the Sandals family and tourism in general.

“She is loyal, passionate, a perfectionist, and someone who always goes the extra mile to complete the task,” Public Relations Manager Ian Spencer told the Observer North East.

Garnett was also lauded for the great relationship which she has formed with guests.

“She has a great rapport with the guests which makes it personalised,” Spencer explained.

Garnett, a devoted family person, is viewed as a professional who is a “stickler for details”.

“She has brought a lot to the table,” Spencer said.

With Garnett doing a great job in tourism and having a passion for service, the Sandals family expects her to continue shining in tourism for many more years to come.