Hi, my name is Jens Kroeze and I am 25 years old. In my free time I like to go out for a drink with friends, but I am also very active. For example, I do kickboxing and I like to go for a run.

My path to WestCord Hotels began with my studies in Manager Ondernemer Horeca. During my studies I did an internship at a Front Office on Curacao, where I discovered my passion for the Front Office in the hospitality industry. After moving to Groningen, I was looking for a new challenge in this field. So I came across a vacancy for part-time Front Office Assistant at The Market Hotel. I applied immediately and was fortunately hired.

I started in October 2023 as a part-time Front Office employee at The Market Hotel. After several months and many positive experiences, I was given the opportunity to work full-time in early 2024. In November 2024, an opportunity to advance to the position of supervisor even came up. I grabbed this opportunity with both hands and to this day I am working in this role with great pleasure and satisfaction!

My workdays always start on time - preferably half an hour in advance. As soon as I'm dressed, I walk around to say hello to my colleagues and regular guests. The work itself varies, but the main tasks are checking in and out, answering emails and helping guests both in person and via email. As a supervisor, I also have additional responsibilities such as checking bookings, processing entertainment expenses, approving hours and supervising new employees.

'‘I like to chat with them and try to remember each guest's name, so they really feel “at home” with us.’'

What I always enjoy is seeing where we are on Tripadvisor and if any new reviews have come in. This is something I am curious about on a daily basis! At Front Office, no day is the same; there are always new, fun challenges waiting for us.

What is your highlight so far in your job at WestCord Hotels?

The greatest moment so far in my career at WestCord Hotels was without a doubt the reopening of The Market Hotel on May 1, 2025. After the tough period after the fire, it was really special to celebrate the hotel's 4-year anniversary. It was great to welcome all the regular guests and townspeople back to us. It felt like a big party!

What do I like most about my job?

The best thing about my job is the contact with the guests. I want to offer them an experience that they remember for a long time, like the guests who say, “Remember that one visit to The Market Hotel, where Jens helped us so much?” In addition, the regular guests who return regularly are an important part of my work.

What is most important to you in a job?

It may sound cliché, but enjoying my work is extremely important to me. In addition, a nice working atmosphere with pleasant colleagues is very important. Fortunately, I can't complain at The Market Hotel. We have a great team. The breaks are always pleasant and there is a lot of laughter over the weekend's stories. Working with people like that makes every day more fun!

What do you want to develop further in the near future?

In the future I want to develop further in my role as supervisor. I am particularly interested in leadership: how do you convey things to your colleagues in a good and motivating way? I also have the ambition to grow within the Front Office and my dream is to eventually become General Manager.

How would my colleagues describe me?

My colleagues would describe me as direct, serious in my work (but definitely not in a negative way), and precise. I am also kind and enjoy working with others. Marissa would say I am persistent, meaning I persevere and work hard. And Noor, one of my dearest colleagues, calls me a born host.

It is really special to work at WestCord Hotels, a place where I not only grow professionally, but where I also enjoy going every day.