I Didn’t Leave Hospitality, I Just changed Tables - Turns Out the Best Thing I Ever Served was Opportunity Hospitality has always been part of who I am — and now, I’m proud to bring that passion to the other side of the desk as Director of Hospitality Management at Lloyd. My goal is to connect great people with great opportunities across restaurants, hotels, and the entire hospitality spectrum. Read more about my journey and vision for building stronger hospitality connections for service to this role—one that allows me to bridge the gap between hospitality leaders and the businesses that rely on them, one conversation at a time. Working in this industry has never been just a job for me; it’s always been a calling. I’ve tried to step away a few times since the pandemic, but hospitality has a way of pulling me back in —mostly because of the people. Whether it’s meeting a startup owner for a cup of coffee that turns into an executive- level placement, or chatting with a seasoned legend about “what’s next for Max,” it’s always the people who live and breathe hospitality that draw me back into the conversation. My career has taken me through luxury boutique hotels, fine dining establishments, casual high-volume restaurants, real estate ventures, and executive leadership roles —from bartender in Palm Beach to executive leader, where I had the privilege of building and motivating high-performing teams and contributing to visionary organizations. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep understanding of what makes this industry thrive: an unwavering commitment to service, meaningful relationships, and the incredible individuals who create memorable moments that define the guest experience. Hospitality, at its heart, is all about connection. Whether greeting guests, leading a team, or shaping a brand, success has always come down to how we engage with people. That’s something I’ve lived every day of my career.
Today, my focus has shifted from operations to opportunity . At Lloyd, my mission is to help both hospitality professionals and employers build strong, lasting relationships —ones that elevate careers, strengthen businesses, and enhance the industry as a whole. Having been on both sides of the desk, I understand firsthand what operators, general managers, and HR leaders are looking for. I’ve also walked in the shoes of the job seeker— striving to grow, make an impact, and find the right cultural fit. That dual perspective allows me to connect authentically with both sides. With my insider’s understanding of the business and my genuine passion for people, I’m working to redefine what it means to recruit in hospitality. My vision for the future is built on trust, connection, and shared success —the same core values that have guided me throughout my career and now form the foundation of my work at Lloyd. Max Marion Director | Hospitality Management at Lloyd
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