Today we’d like to introduce you to Benjamin Schrader.
Benjamin, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Benjamin Schrader is the General Manager of the Hilton Garden Inn Akron, where he brings a wealth of experience and a passion for hospitality to his role. With a remarkable career spanning over decades, Benjamin has excelled as a traveling culinarian and an Executive Chef, showcasing his culinary talents across the United Kingdom, North Carolina, Virginia and Washington, D.C. His commitment to education and mentorship in the culinary arts earned him recognition as the youngest culinary educator listed in the prestigious Who’s Who James Beard directory.
Benjamin’s dedication to making a positive impact in the industry is evident in his role as a Board Member of the ASCVB as well as board member of Akron Publiuc Schools Hospitality Academy since 2021, where he helps shape the next generation of hospitality professionals. His leadership has also been recognized through the Hilton Travel with Purpose grant, donating agriculture and greenhouse equipment to local his grade school and the installation of bee hives on the roof of his hotel, all reflecting his commitment to sustainable practices within the hospitality sector.
Outside of work, Benjamin cherishes time spent with his family, his wife, Jessica including his two sons, Emmett and Mac, and his daughter, Abbey. Growing up on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, he developed a love for travel, fishing, and boating, which continues to be a source of joy. A devoted fan of the Detroit Lions, Benjamin brings the same passion and enthusiasm to his personal interests as he does to his professional endeavours. With a blend of warmth, expertise, and a genuine love for hospitality, Benjamin Schrader is a leader dedicated to enriching the lives of those around him.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Transitioning from D.C. to Akron was difficult from food and beverage aspect. The move was to be closer to my son but ultimately meant less in culinary growth for my career. The move actually turned out to be the best decision I have made, family always wins.
I eventually made a lateral move from the executive chef into the Assistant General Manager, which lead to my current position of General Manager.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am currently the general manager of the Hilton Garden Inn Akron Ohio. We, because it takes all of us, specialize in the best experience a guest can have while staying with us, whether for an event or staying for week. We have to balance this with maintaining and fostering a mutually beneficial culture for our team as well as for the guest. This hotel boasts about our team’s tenure.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
That is a very good question- I feel the industry will be leaning heavily on human connection. With all of the AI in the world, guests want a familiar smiling face at check in and check out. The human touch can be a powerfully unexpected tool in a heavily automated world.
