Meet Mary D’Argenis | Founder & CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mary D’Argenis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mary, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind the success of MDA Hospitality is the passion to instill employee confidence.  Confident employees who fully understand their purpose support companies realize their business results.  MDA Hospitality customizes training content, resources, and programs to deliver operational consistency.  The MDA Hospitality team is comprised of leaders who embody dedication, passion, and integrity. These are leaders with whom I have personally worked in the hospitality industry and have a track record of individual leadership accomplishments. It is an honor and privilege when a company chooses to engage MDA Hospitality. Success is defined by the quantitative outcomes of improved service scores and financial results, along with the qualitative success of team member empowerment, renewed passion, and confidence in their roles.

What should our readers know about your business?
MDA Hospitality is dedicated to strengthening businesses by effectively improving service excellence and increasing team retention.  This outcome is achieved through a comprehensive analysis of the business operation and implementation of customized, engaging training plans. The “MDA Approach” is a four-step pathway to success: Diagnose, Customize, Implement, and Sustain. What sets MDA Hospitality apart from other training firms is the team’s leadership experience, 360-approach, and strategic planning. The most unique aspect is the 360-approach whereby MDA Hospitality works alongside the employees who deliver service and capitalizes on their knowledge to solve for the business outcomes. By involving the team in the solution, there is greater buy-in and sustainment of change. What is most exciting about the business is the sense of accomplishment, empowerment, and ownership created by the employees while delivering the business results desired by the company.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love Miami! It is one of the most interesting, vibrant, alive cities. It sleeps less than New York …though we’ll keep that little secret to ourselves. Places I love to visit in Miami are El Palacio de los Jugos for fresh juice, Versailles for Cuban cuisine, and any ventanitas for a cortadito or colada. Lately, my daughters and I are hooked on bubble tea and have been frequenting Miu’s on South Beach. The Thai Tea and Mango Black Tea with Passion Fruit popping pearls are amazing! The Adrienne Arscht is our go-to for great performances, including the Miami City Ballet’s Nutcracker each December.  Walks on the mid-beach paved walkway are relaxing and a reminder as to why tourists flock to our great city.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am extremely grateful to have had so many amazing people positively impact my life.  Early in my career, I was fortunate to have been influenced by Mim Flynn, Magic Kingdom Food & Beverage General Manager.  Mim was my leader at the Walt Disney Company and has since remained a friend.  As a young professional, Mim allowed me to pursue my passion in a corporate environment while encouraging feedback.  Ideas were welcomed, which fueled my desire to further contribute.  Mim’s organization, ability to inspire, and understand each leader individually allowed our team to flourish.  She provided solid guidance and effectively balanced work and personal life while encouraging her team to do the same.  I appreciated the values Mim promoted and the humanity she incorporated into the business.

Website: www.mdahospitality.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/24977063/admin/