FROM a hospitality trainee programme participant to spa and fitness manager at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort and Private Island, Kimberly Hewitt’s 13-year career journey is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and professional excellence.

Her rise through the ranks at Sandals highlights a story of determination and the power of seizing opportunities.

“My journey with Sandals has been both dynamic and deeply rewarding,” shared Hewitt.

“The organisation has provided me with invaluable experiences and opportunities to grow, allowing me to enhance my skills and make meaningful contributions to the hospitality industry while achieving personal growth,” added Hewitt.

Her career started as a hospitality trainee at Sandals Montego Bay, where her passion and dedication quickly caught the attention of then hotel Manager Dawn Smith.

Recognising her potential, Smith offered her a position immediately after she completed the programme.

Starting as a front office agent, Hewitt steadily advanced, earning promotions to club sandals agent, red lane spa receptionist, and later spa supervisor.

In 2022, she was promoted to assistant red lane spa manager and transferred to Sandals Dunn’s River (SDR) when it reopened. Despite the daily commute from Montego Bay to SDR for nearly two years, Hewitt embraced the challenge, viewing it as an investment in her growth.

Her hard work and dedication paid off in 2024 when she joined Sandals Royal Caribbean (SRC) as red lane spa and fitness manager, a role she views as a significant milestone in her career.

Hewitt’s guiding philosophy has always been about passion and purpose, clearly demonstrated throughout the years of growth in Sandals.

While she understands that obstacles will come, she believes, “Your will and determination have to be greater than any obstacle.”

Though she initially aspired to be a nurse, Hewitt has discovered her true calling in hospitality.

“I was uncomfortable with blood and needles and so I decided that nursing was perhaps not the best option for me. Hospitality gave me a path where I could still care for others in a way that suited me better,” explained Hewitt.

“Sandals has provided me with continuous learning, leadership development, and exposure to best practices in the industry,” said Hewitt who has earned a Diploma in Hospitality Leadership from Florida International University, Accelerating Leaders, and Sandals Corporate University.

She also highlighted her team’s victory in the group capstone project as a career-defining moment. “Winning with my team was a truly rewarding experience that validated all our hard work,” added Hewitt whose promotion to red lane spa and fitness manager stands out as her most memorable achievement.

“This reaffirmed my passion for hospitality and the meaningful impact we create for both our guests and team members,” she reflected.

However, it was also a bittersweet achievement. “My late father would have been incredibly proud of me, and I wish he were here to celebrate it. His memory continues to inspire me to strive for excellence.”

Mentorship has been another cornerstone of Hewitt’s success. She speaks with gratitude about Sandals leaders Tamika Robb-Scott and Paulette Clark-King, who provided her with guidance and encouragement.

“Their belief in my potential and their wisdom have been instrumental in shaping my career. Through their leadership, I learned the importance of creating a supportive and empowering environment in which others can strive,” she added.

Hewitt’s story is one of growth, and the transformative power of opportunity and leadership. Her professional journey at Sandals showcases how determination and the right support can pave the way to extraordinary success.