From Front Desk to GM - Nick Bonniksen’s Inspiring Journey in Hospitality

In this episode, Cody is joined by Nick Bonniksen, Director of Kiln St. George, to talk about the transformative power of sports, resilience, and the dynamic hospitality industry. Originally on the path to a professional baseball career, Nick’s journey took a sharp turn after sports injuries forced him to rethink his future. With no Plan B, Nick started at the front desk of a Marriott and quickly rose through the ranks, proving that determination can turn entry-level beginnings into something extraordinary.

After working in various roles—including Front Desk Manager, Sales Director, and even night auditor during the challenging COVID period—Nick continued to grow. His next move took him to Utah’s Best Vacation Rentals as Sales Director and eventually Regional Manager, where he doubled the company’s revenue. Recognized for his success, he was recruited back to Marriott as General Manager of Wyndgate St. George, where he led the location to a remarkable global ranking of #4 in just three years.

Now at Kiln, a thriving coworking community, Nick hopes to bolster the business ecosystem in Southern Utah. Cody and Nick discuss how his sports background shaped his leadership, how he tackled obstacles, and his goals for Kiln’s latest location in St. George. This episode is filled with insights on the value of perseverance and the rapid growth possible in the hospitality industry with the right mindset.

Connect w/Nick:
Website: https://kiln.com/communities/st-george/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bonniksen-37280b178/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickbonniksen/
Email: nick.b@kiln.com

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