Name: Suzie Mills
Title: General manager
Company, city: Trump International Hotel & Tower New York; New York, N.Y.
Number of employees: 255
Recent project: Renovated residential hallways and upgraded in-room TVs; ongoing improvements and upgrades continue across both the hotel and residences.
First job: I was raised in the hospitality industry; my parents owned a hotel.
Little-known fact about you: I was the youngest female general manager at a five-star hotel in North America.
Your Business
Essential business philosophy: Ensuring employees are supported and satisfied is fundamental. Happy employees create happy guests, and that focus drives everything we do. We have an excellent retention rate—this property celebrates its 20th anniversary in January, and 44 associates have been with me throughout those two decades.
Best way to keep a competitive edge: Service. I am a hands-on general manager involved with daily operations. Building personal connections—knowing guests’ names, their families and their preferences—keeps us competitive.
Yardstick of success: Passion is the clearest measure—guests notice it immediately. Loyalty, longevity and outstanding customer service are equally important.
Suzie Mills as a Traveler
What is the most important item you take when traveling? A cashmere wrap, my favorite Chanel red lipstick and, honoring my British roots, Boots No7 moisturizer.
How do you spend your time on board? I tackle projects I often postpone. On long international flights without Wi-Fi, I catch up on movies.
What is your favorite restaurant in the world? In the United States, Jean-Georges in our hotel—the formal dining room offers three-Michelin-star-quality food and an elegant atmosphere. Internationally, The Cliff Restaurant in Barbados is a favorite.
What is your favorite destination in the world? Kenya on safari or any sunny beach — I love the warmth and the sea.
About Trump International Hotel & Tower New York
What can premium travelers expect from a stay at Trump International Hotel & Tower? Guests can expect a true home away from home. The service level defines the experience: staff are genuine, attentive and proactive. We anticipate guest needs and deliver personalized, exceptional service that consistently exceeds expectations.
Tell our readers about unique amenities and offerings available this fall and winter. The hotel is family-friendly and offers a range of children’s programming, from kids’ glamping and “kids in the kitchen” activities to special packages for viewing the Thanksgiving Day Parade. All rooms feature kitchens or kitchenettes, which remain a popular amenity; we can pre-stock kitchens to guest preferences. Our Attaché service provides a dedicated team of runners for guest needs, and partnerships with local shops and services offer added benefits to visitors.
What can travelers expect from the hotel in 2017? We will be celebrating the hotel’s 20th anniversary in 2017 with special packages and events. One featured offer will honor our 1997 opening with a $1,997 package that includes a platinum floral arrangement, Billecart-Salmon Champagne, two Trump Platinum massages, an eight-piece gourmet chocolate selection and more. We are also developing an exclusive $20,000 package. It will be a memorable year of celebrations and elevated experiences.