Meet Mychal Milian | Hotelier & FIU Professor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mychal Milian and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mychal, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risk-taking, for me, has been a cornerstone of my professional journey, especially in the hospitality industry. There was a period in my career where I found myself transitioning between jobs annually. This wasn’t a reflection of performance issues; rather, it was a testament to the opportunities that arose from taking risks and proving my capabilities. Each move, although risky considering how it might appear on my resume, represented a step up – an offer for a promotion or a more substantial role that I couldn’t pass up.

One of the most significant risks I took was accepting the General Manager position at Marriott and AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Airport without prior experience in that specific role. It was a daunting leap, more so as it was amidst the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic. This decision required not just a belief in my own abilities but also a deep trust in the team I was going to lead and the brand I represented.

These risks have shaped my career and my approach to leadership. They’ve underscored the importance of adaptability, resilience, and the courage to embrace change and new challenges. The ability to take calculated risks, guided by core values and goals, has been instrumental in my growth, and it’s a principle I carry with me in every decision and opportunity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career trajectory in the hospitality industry can largely be attributed to a philosophy of consistently going above and beyond expectations. From the outset, I embraced opportunities that others might have shied away from, volunteering for tasks that were often overlooked or undervalued. This approach wasn’t just about proving my capabilities; it was about understanding every facet of the industry I’m passionate about.

A pivotal moment that shaped my work ethic came early in my career, when a mentor advised me, ‘Never leave before the boss.’ This simple yet profound guidance stuck with me. It underscored the importance of dedication and visibility. As a result, I found myself being the first to arrive and the last to leave, not as a mere show of diligence but as a commitment to mastering my craft and contributing to the team in every way possible.

This mindset of embracing hard work and being willing to step into the breach has set me apart. It’s been a journey marked by long hours and the willingness to tackle even the most challenging tasks head-on. These experiences not only honed my skills but also built my resilience and deepened my understanding of the operational intricacies of the hospitality world.

What I’ve learned is that leadership in hospitality is as much about service as it is about management. The lessons from those early days of never shying away from hard work have stayed with me, shaping not just how I approach my role but also how I lead and inspire my team.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Welcome to Miami

Morning: Start the day with a leisurely brunch at Greenstreet Café in Coconut Grove. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in their famous pancakes.

Afternoon: Stroll through the charming streets of Coconut Grove, exploring unique shops and the lush scenery.

Evening: Head to Sushi Garage for a delightful happy hour experience, followed by a visit to Cafe La Trova in Little Havana, recently voted one of the World’s Best Bars, for some live music and amazing cocktails.

Day 2: The Heart of Miami Beach

Morning: Breakfast at a local café, followed by a walk along South Beach to soak in the sun and sand.
Afternoon: Explore the art deco architecture and the vibrant culture of Miami Beach.
Evening: Dinner at Cecconi’s inside SOHO Beach House – make sure to try the Picante. Then, cap off the night with innovative cocktails at Broken Shaker.

Day 3: Coral Gables Charm

Morning: A relaxing start with breakfast at a quaint café in Coral Gables.
Afternoon: Enjoy shopping and sightseeing along Miracle Mile, known for its upscale shops and Mediterranean-style architecture.
Evening: Experience a see-and-be-seen steak dinner at Prime 112 – a hotspot for both great food and celebrity sightings.

Day 4: Relax and Unwind

Daytime: Spend a leisurely day at The Standard, lounging by the pool and enjoying their legendary frose.

Evening: Casual dinner at a local favorite in Coral Gables or Coconut Grove.

Day 5-7: Explore and Enjoy

Options Include:
A day trip to the Florida Keys for some snorkeling and fresh seafood.
Visiting Wynwood Walls to explore Miami’s vibrant street art scene.
Checking out museums like the Perez Art Museum or the Frost Science Museum.
Exploring the Everglades National Park for a bit of adventure.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In the journey of my career, the influence of mentors, educational experiences, and personal support has been immense. A heartfelt shoutout goes to Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, where my foundation in this dynamic industry was built.

I’m also immensely grateful to Economos Properties for their early faith in my capabilities and for providing me with opportunities that spurred significant professional growth.

Equally important in my career path have been a few General Managers who have been instrumental mentors and guides. One of my first GM’s, who showed me the ropes and laid the groundwork for my approach to hospitality; my current Regional, Daniel Lam, who not only gave me my first Front Office Manager role at Hilton Garden Inn but also trusted me with my current role as GM. Gilberto Garcia-Tunon, a mentor and GM at two of my former properties, The Raleigh and Hilton Cabana Miami Beach, has been pivotal in shaping my understanding of luxury hospitality. And Erin Hosler, who gave me my first opportunity as Director of Rooms at The Standard, a role that significantly honed my leadership skills in the industry.

Last, but certainly not least, my deepest appreciation goes to my wife, whose support and belief in my ‘crazy ideas’ have been the backbone of my career leaps. Her trust in my judgment has been a constant source of encouragement.

Each of these individuals has played a distinct yet significant role in my professional life, and for their guidance, faith, and support, I am forever grateful.

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mychalhotels/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ihavethisthingwithhotellobbies/

Other: www.marriott.com/fllmp www.marriott.com/fllac