With 29 years of experience in the tourism industry, Rufat Babayev has built a distinguished career spanning seven different countries and multiple leadership roles within Hyatt Hotels. His journey is a testament to continuous learning, adaptability, and a deep passion for hospitality.

The Chaîne News Online put some questions to Rufat to get a good insight into his thoughts on the hospitality industry and his significant role in it as Area Vice President, Hyatt Hotels Türkiye.

Q: Back at the start of your career, did you have a plan, know where you wanted to be, or did it just happen?
A: My career was built on the foundation of continuous growth and learning. From the beginning, I sought out role models, leaders I admired and worked hard to follow in their footsteps. While I didn’t have every step planned, my commitment to learning and improving ultimately shaped my journey.

Q: Looking back at your younger self at the start of your career, what piece of wisdom would you now give that younger you?
A: Be patient. Growth takes time, and every experience, good or bad, adds to your knowledge. Avoid overreacting to challenges, stay focused on learning, and invest in yourself. Most importantly, love what you do. When you understand and appreciate your work, success follows naturally.

Q: If you knew back then what you know now, how might your decisions have changed?
A: Every lesson comes at the right time, and mistakes are part of the journey. Failure isn't the end. It’s a learning opportunity. Over time, I realized that decisions shape actions, but setbacks should never be seen as roadblocks. Instead, they build resilience and maturity. No decision, even the wrong one, is a waste if you learn from it.

Q: How do you keep your professional development up to date and your skills at peak performance?
A: By staying engaged, continuously learning, and expanding my network. Socializing, connecting with industry peers, embracing new trends, and constantly challenging myself are key. Taking care of mental well-being is just as important as professional development. It keeps me motivated and ready to perform at my best.

Q: If you had a crucial piece of advice to give students within the hospitality industry that would give their coming career ‘rocket fuel,’ what might it be?
A: Passion is everything. In hospitality, success comes from genuinely enjoying what you do and bringing energy and positivity to every interaction. A warm smile and a service-oriented mindset will set you apart. Stay adaptable, be proactive, and never stop learning.

Q: If you had a crystal ball, how do you see the hospitality industry looking like in the future?
A: The industry will continue evolving with technology, making processes more seamless. AI will enhance efficiency, and digital tools will redefine guest experiences. However, hospitality will never be without the human touch. Technology is a great enabler, but the essence of our industry is connection, warmth, and personalized service. The future is about balancing innovation with the irreplaceable value of human interaction.

Ed. Rufat Babyev joined the Chaîne in 2019 as a Maître Hôtelier. In 2022 he was promoted to be Vice-Chancelier of the Bailliage of Istanbul.