We welcome him, he welcomes us

We welcome him, he welcomes us

Docklands is not only getting a new international hotel, it’s getting a new hotel manager who wants to engage with the community.

The new 273-room Four Points by Sheraton in Waterfront City opens on March 28.

Manager Stephen Ferrigno clearly has a lot to do between now and then but has still found the time to introduce himself to the Docklands community.

Mr Ferrigno is a Melbourne-lad but Docklands was an industrial wasteland last time he looked this way.

During his years away, the last nine being spent in Noosa, Docklands has transformed into the beautiful waterfront location we know today.

His new hotel is part of the latest development on the west side of the old Waterfront City piazza and fronts Docklands Drive.

Mr Ferrigno is amazed and delighted with Docklands’ progress to date and wants to be part of the next chapter.

His experience in other places has taught him that successful hotels engage with their local areas. He’s keen to get involved here and sees the new Sheraton as a vital piece of community infrastructure.

It’s not just the fine dining addition to the local culinary scene. He plans to open up the venue to community activities.

“We need to support each other,” he said. “And we know we get a better financial result if we support the locals.”

He said the hotel would be keen to allow local groups to use its meeting rooms. Mr Ferrigno will also encourage his staff to get involved locally.

“These things come at no cost to us, but add to a healthy P&L (profit and loss),” he said.

Mr Ferrigno will in January start recruiting the 150-180 staff he will need to operate the luxury hotel. He’s on the look out for some bright youngsters wishing to build a career with one of the world’s biggest hospitality operators.

“Marriot International has 30 brands and a global network, so we’ve got a fair bit to offer,” he said.

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