Bilal Madi
Deputy Housekeeping Manager (ATLANTIC Hotels Wilhelmshaven)
"My story at today's ATLANTIC Hotel Wilhelmshaven started when I applied for a job as a window cleaner at the Columbia Hotel Wilhelmshaven in 2009 (the hotel was taken over by ATLANTIC Hotels in 2015). I felt very comfortable right from the start and the housekeeper at the time was very happy with my work. As the weather in winter didn't always permit window cleaning, I also offered to do other tasks around the house. So I started shampooing carpets, did basic cleaning work and supported on the floors.
In my 8 years as a window cleaner, I have learnt many new tasks and contributed my skills and professional experience. However, I also carried out more advanced tasks such as clearing goods, stocking floors and checking rooms. I really enjoyed the variety between window cleaning and the other tasks.
In 2017, I was offered the position of supervisor. This position increased my area of responsibility and allowed me to take on more responsibility. The housekeeper gradually showed me more and more tasks and later assigned them to me.
The tasks included, for example, writing rosters, ordering goods, stocktaking and much more.
During the pandemic in 2021, my line manager at the time was no longer allowed to work due to pregnancy. She then asked me if I could take over her duties in her absence.
‘Of course, I was very happy about it and at the same time it was a new and big responsibility for me.’
Just a few days later, I was officially promoted to Deputy Housekeeping Manager.
With the great support of two supervisors and a great housekeeping team, I managed the department for about a year. Today I work side by side with the new housekeeper.’
// Publication: 2 January 2025 //
