Behind a career shift : my journey from compliance to hospitality
J. Tarabori
Starting Out
I never imagined myself working in the hospitality industry. My journey began far from hotel lobbies.
I spent my childhood moving from one country to another, following my father on his diplomatic assignments. By the time I was an adult, I had mastered the art of packing a suitcase in record time. From there, I went on to study law in Paris, Fribourg, and St. Gallen, with big ambitions: to become a corporate lawyer, the kind you see in Suits—sharp suits, high-stakes cases, business travel, the whole package.
An internship at a private bank in Geneva introduced me to the world of compliance, specifically anti-money laundering—a crucial line of defense for global financial hubs.
When my plan to become a lawyer in Geneva didn’t pan out, I pivoted quickly, taking on roles in financial crime investigation and analysis. My last position as a financial analyst exposed me to international cases of economic crime. These experiences sharpened my analytical skills and attention to detail while teaching me how to navigate complex issues under pressure.
A surprising change of direction
Over time, I started to feel the pull of something new. I wanted to focus on what mattered most to me: human connection, creative problem-solving, and innovation in project development. It was like pausing mid-hike to check the map, only to realize that the path I was on wasn’t leading to the horizons I now dreamed of exploring.
That’s when the idea of hospitality first came to mind. I thought about the little things I’ve always noticed as a guest: a warm smile at reception, a spotless room, a thoughtful handwritten welcome note. Small details that might go unnoticed by most, but that have the power to make an experience truly memorable. That’s when it clicked—hospitality isn’t just a job. It’s an art form.
The Vision of an Aspiring Hotelier
What draws me to hospitality is its human and creative nature. I’ve always been inspired by the magic that happens when talented individuals from diverse fields—interior designers, chefs, architects—come together to create spaces that tell a story and honor their surroundings.
To me, hospitality is about designing places that combine beauty, comfort, and meaning, while remaining deeply rooted in their local culture. One day, I hope to open my own bed and breakfast—a place that feels warm, simple, and welcoming, where local produce and authentic cuisine take center stage. Somewhere where every detail, no matter how small, contributes to an experience that’s genuine and heartfelt.
The Challenges of Change
Switching careers in Switzerland—a country where stability is practically a national value—is no small feat. It takes courage and careful planning. Yes, it’s meant making sacrifices, both financial and personal, but it’s also been an opportunity to rediscover meaning in my work. It’s a bit like hiking in the Swiss Alps: there are steep climbs and descents, but the views always make it worthwhile.
Transferable Skills
Changing industries comes with uncertainty, but I’m confident the skills I developed in compliance are highly transferable. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and risk assessment are all critical to delivering exceptional and secure guest experiences in hospitality.
Another skill I’ve come to value is improvisation. I had to put it to the test in 2023 during an earthquake in Marrakech. In the middle of the night, everyone was outside, disoriented and in pajamas. The hotel staff was overwhelmed, so I suggested transforming an empty lot into a makeshift safe area. With lounge chairs, beach towels, and cushions, we created a space where people could rest comfortably.
That moment taught me that even in chaos, a bit of creativity and calm can make all the difference. This spirit of adaptability and resourcefulness is what I love about hospitality—creating solutions and comfort, even in the unexpected.
A Journey of Learning
Deciding to change careers is a lot like putting on skis for the first time—it’s exhilarating, but the slope can look intimidating. Luckily, the École Hôtelière de Genève (EHG) has helped me stay on track.
Their postgraduate program in Hotel Management, with its balance of rigor and flexibility (thank you, online courses!), allows me to move forward at my own pace without disrupting my schedule entirely.
What makes EHG stand out is its small, supportive team. They provide personalized guidance that makes this transition smoother and more manageable, like having a steadying hand to help you avoid a fall. Thanks to their support, this career shift feels less like a black diamond slope and more like a challenge I’m ready to conquer.
The Balance Between Comfort and Adventure
This year of reflection and reinvention has taught me how important it is to listen to yourself, ask the right questions, and find solutions—not in isolation, but with the support of others. I’ve come to realize that personal growth often requires stepping outside your comfort zone. Taking a risk is like diving into Lake Geneva on a winter morning—it’s shocking at first, but it wakes you up and leaves you feeling alive.
As Mark Twain said, “Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did.” So why not set sail, try, make mistakes perhaps, but above all, move forward with boldness and enthusiasm?
