In Her Own Words: Women In Hospitality Profile
by Patricia Blair Lennox

Q. Patty, how did you get started in the hospitality industry?

A. I became interested in the hospitality industry on a business trip we went on with my father to California when I was in high school. I was so impressed with the trip and the hotels we stayed in and restaurants we went to that I was quite sure I wanted to work in a restaurant when I turned 16 and was able to work. I got a job at a local Abdows Big Boy where I started as a salad bar/breakfast bar staff member. I had to prep and stock these areas during my shifts. I quickly was promoted to the wait staff where I ultimately ended up as a trainer of all new employees.

Q. What types of positions have you held?

A. Salad bar/breakfast bar staff, wait staff, Front of the House Manager, Maitre D, Back of House Steward, Director of Purchasing, Director of Operations, and Director of Finance and Human Resources

Q. What is a typical day like for you as the Director of Finance and Human Resources with Harvest Restaurants?

A. Multitasking, multitasking, multitasking. It can be a bit crazy between all of the different areas and responsibilities such as payroll, A/P, and HR. I love keeping busy and every day is different.

Q. What do you see the biggest challenges and rewards for women working in the hospitality industry?

A. Obviously it is an industry where we are outnumbered. I think it has been difficult at times during my career dealing with some very big egos and getting respect. I do feel I have worked with some wonderful people and built very sound and rewarding working relationships with these individuals. I prefer to reflect more on the positive experiences that I have had.

Q. Do you have any advice for women who want a leadership role in the industry?

A. I think it is up to the individual to decide what management and leadership style they want to have and to be consistent. Employees like direction and feedback and it is management’s responsibility to lead by example. I think that goes for both female and male leaders. Patricia Blair Lennox is the Director of Finance and Human Resources for Harvest Restaurants in New Jersey. Ms. Lennox has worked in the hospitality industry for 21 years. In her free time she enjoys exercising, reading, spending time with her family and vacationing in Cape Cod.

Women In Hospitality Profile – Lennox – 1-15-08