Werner Strazzer – A Hotel Manager in Nigeria

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Last weekend I caught up with Mr. Werner Strazzer, the following is an article about him and his illustrious career thus far. You will find a Q&A session at the end of the post. MG

I’ve been around the internet for quite a while now and in the process, I have met some fascinating people who share my interest along with my passion for cooking. One of these people is Mr. Werner Strazzer.

Werner actually has a professional culinary background; however currently he is working in the capacity of General Manager of Juanita Hotel in Old GRA Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

Over the past year, we have exchanged ideas and have helped each in various ways. He has been particularly helpful with chef 21.

His Career Story

Nigeria – that’s right. He is working there. No doubt, the place is beautiful, but it is not always easy to live in that part of the world. It surely is a great change from the places where he worked before.

Mr. Werner Strazzer worked his way to the top so to speak. He worked his way through various kitchen ranks while he was then finishing a Hotel and Management course in Switzerland. Priding himself as a genuine hotelier, he worked hard and occupied various positions within the industry.

He became an F&B Manager, Hotel Operation Manager and Hotel Manager in various hotels and restaurants all over the world. He usually stays for a couple of years in each location. Over the years, he has practically learned almost everything about hotel and restaurant management.

Now, the Juanita Hotel in Nigeria is benefiting greatly from his skills and experience.

Where is He Working?

Juanita Hotel is a lavished and upscale hotel located in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. It boasts of modern deluxe rooms and suites and world class facilities. It has a banquet hall, a health club, a mosaic bar and a fine dining Signature Restaurant.

The property opened its doors to the public in August 25, 2008. Werner and a group of professionals manage the hotel. This establishment is strategically located in the Old Government Reserved Area, one of Port Harcourt’s safest and most picturesque areas.

It is not easy for Werner, however, to work there. The surrounding areas are not safe. To ensure his security, he avoids going out of the locale area. He can’t deny, however, that he truly enjoys working there though.

What Does the Future Hold?

The future will always be seemingly bright for Werner. He will continue to enjoy the same exciting career that he has lead in the hospitality industry. He will continue to travel and build friendships wherever he goes. He has probably experienced the best of cultures and world sceneries. It is not surprising that with his experience he has developed the right character for his job.

Werner has also learned to speak several languages. He is fluent in English, German and French and he can converse in Italian, Spanish and Arabic

Question Time – Mr. Werner Strazzer

chef 21- What inspired you to align yourself with the Hospitality Industry?

Mr. Werner Strazzer- First of all, I started out with this desire to learn about the huge varieties of food products and the various methods of preparing food in varying environments.

Later on, my desire to become a chef and a hotel manager was driven by the desire to discover and explore all these countries and beautiful islands all over the world. I wanted to have direct contacts with different cultures, systems and environments.

chef 21- How hard as the road to success been?

Mr. Werner Strazzer- Probably, like you could expect – the usual. However, the ups and downs are typically included in every path. You need to conquer them to reach the top of the ladder of success.

Sometimes, hitches and problems can strike you very hard as I experienced myself. Fortunately, there are times when they only happen to remind you to do better and respect what is around you.

chef 21- What is the most challenging thing about your current position?

Mr. Werner Strazzer- Port Harcourt in Nigeria is not well known as one of the friendliest environment, but we are on top of the situation now; and soon, the area’s good reputation will be restored and business will be back to normal.

A huge challenge is to train the local staff in this part of the world to be reliable, honest, friendly, punctual and responsible. It is also a challenge to train them to be skilled, to be involved with the daily dealings with our guests and to be able to perform to the maximum level within a high standard hotel with international top demanding clientele as we have here in Juanita Hotel.

chef 21- Are guests always right?

Mr. Werner Strazzer- “Of course!” It gives them the kick.

chef 21- What do you do when you have some free time?

Mr. Werner Strazzer- I play tennis. I go swimming. Basically, I just relax within my personal environment.

chef 21- If you were not a General Manager what line of business do you think you would be involved with?

Mr. Werner Strazzer- I probably would be a sea or air captain.

chef 21- Thank you for the opportunity to discuss your career Werner.

Mr. Werner Strazzer- You are welcome Matthew, thank you for time.

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