Just graduated: Jur Plötz [F 2022]

"By investing a lot now and working hard, I hope to establish a solid foundation for the years ahead."

Eventually he wants to become an entrepreneur, but if Jur Plötz [F 2022] gets the opportunity to work with his role model Emmy Stoel [F 1989], the hotel industry becomes an option too. He is now gaining work experience in two places he dreamt of as a young boy: the ArenA and the Formula 1 circuit.

What are your plans after you graduate?

'At the moment, I mainly want to gain work experience and I am involved in various things. After my internship I was able to continue working at the Johan Cruijff Arena. During events such as concerts or Ajax matches I work as a supervisor at various locations. Additionally, I'm busy starting something of my own in Amsterdam, which is in its early stages. In between, I also work at the Paddock Club during Formula 1 races and I really enjoy the variety. I've been a fan of Ajax and Formula 1 since I was a child, and now I work there and experience it up close.'

What are important qualities that your future employer should have?

'Exude calmness and have knowledge of the field. I'm looking for an employer who is service-oriented and hospitable and where I feel at home as a team player.'

How did you land your first job?

'Through the hotel school and my internship. After I had submitted my top three internship preferences, the school advised me differently. I listened to that advice, and it turned out to be a good choice. I had a fantastic internship at Maison van den Boer in the Johan Cruijff Arena. After my internship, I decided that I wanted to continue working at the Arena. When Maison van den Boer was taken over by Hutten Catering, I also made the transition.'

What's your next step?

'Ideally, I hope that in 3 years my business is running well and I'm already working on expanding to surrounding cities, such as Utrecht for example. I find entrepreneurship very interesting because you can and must make your own decisions. My goal for the coming years is to grow steadily and not take too big steps.

I'm willing to take risks in this endeavor! By investing heavily and working hard now, I hope to establish a solid foundation for the years ahead. Currently, I really enjoy and find VIP catering exciting and I would like to continue doing that for a while. I follow my instincts and am always open to opportunities and possibilities. If I get the chance to work in a nice hotel, I would certainly consider it.'

Which alumni has left an impression on you?

'I believe that the majority of the alumni demonstrate that there are countless opportunities to achieve success, ranging from advancing within companies to entrepreneurship. That, to me, is the most important example. Being eager to learn and working hard are two qualities you must possess because you'll truly have to do it yourself.

If I have to choose someone who has impressed me, I would undoubtedly choose Emmy Stoel [F 1989]. She also graduated from the hotel school in Maastricht, is currently the general manager at Sofitel The Grand in Amsterdam, and previously worked for a long time at the Okura. She was recently named European Hotel Manager of the Year, and it seems very educational to someday work for her. She has worked in every department and knows the ins and outs. She has demonstrated that by working hard and being eager to learn, you can reach the pinnacle of the hotel industry. She's an example for me!'