Niko Kaihua

IIIE Bachelor of Business Administration
The IIE’s Varsity College Westville
GRADUATED CLASS OF 2017
Company: Hilton Durban

Describe your daily duties:
As a GC& E Coordinator, my duty is to act as a link between the different departments and divisions within the hotel and operations. I compile proposals and drafting contracts based on our clients’ budgets and requirements to secure new business for the hotel. I assist in setting room rates for group accommodation by utilising different revenue management tools and programmes. I communicate our clients’ contracted needs to the hotel’s operational departments to ensure they provide the product and services that they paid for.

Why did you choose the qualification you studied?
Business studies had always been my interest and passion and I wanted to choose a course that allowed me to put the theory into practise. This degree is very practical and hands on, requiring your involvement in the hospitality industry. It allowed me to focus on and develop the theoretical concepts of Business studies and apply them directly to a real life industry which has always interested me.

Is your qualification relevant to your job? If so, did your studies adequately prepare you for your job?
Yes, I feel that for the position I am in, I am able to apply concepts learnt during my studies to my role. All the various modules provided me with a better understanding of the business’ operations and moulded the way I view the company and environment within which it functions. It definitely gave me a good start.

What is your greatest career achievement to date?
I feel like there is still so much left to achieve however my greatest accomplishment to date is having entered the industry and working my way to becoming one of the youngest coordinators ever employed by the hotel.

What are your future career plans?
I would like to specialise in Revenue Management, or grow within the Business Development department.

What was the one thing that stood out the most for you about The IIE’s Varsity College?
It was the personal contact I received from lecturers. This was a major advantage and worked well for my learning style as I was able to ask necessary questions and discuss concepts directly with lecturers.

What advice would you give to students who are looking for or about to embark on their first job?
You definitely need to put in the hard work and commitment if you want to be recognised. Internships are a great way to gain entry into companies and create a good first impression for employees.