Meet Alex Mendel | Assistant General Manager / Director of Residences (The Estates at Acqualina)

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

Hi Alex, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
I would say the most important lesson I have learned through the Hospitality business is to treat everyone encounter, guests, residents, team members, vendors, etc. the same. I treat each interaction as if it is my most important as this is how I would like to be treated. This is something that allows me to focus my attention on that interaction and that person no matter who that is. I feel this is so important in my business as it is all about forming and keeping strong relationships.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career is in the hospitality business, which I love. I have been in this business since I was 16 years old, working the front desk at a small city hotel in downtown Atlanta. I worked there throughout high school and fell in love with the business and interactions. From there, I went to Cornell University and studied at the famous “Hotel School” for hospitality. Over the years, I continued to learn and grow and work in different areas of operations in hotels and resorts. The journey was not easy but something I am proud to say I have done as I have worked almost every operational job at a hotel/resort from housekeeping to the spa to pool and beach to running operations for entire departments at some of the finest resorts in the world. I have worked with people from all different backgrounds and countries and have grown every step of the way with different interactions and relationships that have formed. I have been challenged with operations and issues that have had to be resolved on the spot, which forced be to be a quick thinker and resolution finder.

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?
I would start by having them stay at our sister property at Acqualina. From there, they would not need to leave often with all of the amenities offered by enjoying the beach and ocean lawn! I would then have dinner at Avra. The next day I would make my way down to Wynwood and walk around going into the shops and bars to enjoy! I would then have them head to a sporting event whether it be Dolphins, Heat, or Panthers depending on who is playing that weekend.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to recognize my both of my parents, my wife, and my brother, as they are the ones that push me each day. Without them, I would not be where I am and not challenged each day. I also have their full support, which allows me to feel comfortable and know any decision I make in life will be supported.