Tomi Merilinen
General Manager
Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel Oslo
Q:ÊWhat does a day at work consist of for you?
A:ÊSupporting my management team in their work, following up on-going projects, walking around and talking to both guest and staff, following up on performance and looking into the future. In a large hotel there is a lot going on and every day is different. Some days are more desk based and the others are filled in with meetings and conversations over the phone or Skype.
Q:ÊWhat’s the best part of your job?
A:ÊVersatility of tasks. There are many areas to handle and my focus is shifting depending on the situation and needs. Particularly I enjoy developing the way things are done and coming up with new ideas to be implemented.
Q:ÊDo you have anyone you’ve looked up to?
A:ÊI have had the pleasure to work with people from different backgrounds and nationalities and there have been many people that have inspired me. I believe there is something to learn from everyone and would not state just a name or two. I look up to everyone that has the courage to live their life to the fullest without regret and fear.
Q:ÊDo you have any nice traditions at your office?
A:Ê“Julegr¿t” which I am very much looking forward to this year.
Q:ÊWhat do you think is the best thing about HSMAI?
A:ÊBringing professionals together.
Q:ÊAre there any activities or projects you think HSMAI should start up?
A:ÊToo early to say, being new to the organisation.
Q:ÊDescribe your perfect weekend.
A:ÊGood sleep, morning yoga, sunshine, meeting friends and enjoying life. Nothing beats a weekend boat ride on the Oslo Fjord in the summer.
Q:ÊIf you were trapped on a desert island, what would you take with you, if you could choose one thing?
A:ÊAn endless container of drinking water. The first thing to do in the morning is drink water.
Q:ÊWhat is the title of the book about your life?
A:ÊThere and back again.
Q:ÊWhat is your next travel-destination?
A:ÊSomewhere in the Norwegian mountains. I am looking forward to a lot of skiing the upcoming winter.
Q:ÊDo you have any special hobbies?
A:ÊI am very curious person and tend to get easily excited about new things. Sports is a crucial part of my daily routine and can hardly be a day without any exercise. I do enjoy the outdoor exercise facilities around Oslo. I guess this does not count for anything special though.
Q:ÊThank you for your time. Do you have any personal comments?
A:ÊIt’s good to be in Norway and looking very much forward to enjoying the local outdoors oriented way of life.
