Team Member Spotlight: Nick Luna
You already know how The Guestbook can transform your direct booking engine and boost your revenue, but how well do you know the talent behind our technology? In the first of an ongoing series of interviews, we are proud to feature some of the “back of the house” personalities who make it all happen. First up, VP of Operations, Nick Luna!
What do you do at The Guestbook?
I oversee the day to day operations of the program… everything from the member rewards to accounting. I’m really a behind-the-scenes guy.
How did you get started in the hospitality industry?
Back in 2008, I was recruited by Bonotel Exclusive Travel. I was working at Citibank as a Licensed Banker when the owner of Bonotel offered me a position in his company. I had no clue what the company did or even what a receptive tour operator was, but I was intrigued by the hospitality industry. I mean, I was in Las Vegas so working in hospitality seemed inevitable!
How did you get started at The Guestbook?
After leaving Bonotel I actually began pursuing a career in law enforcement. While in training for LVMPD, I happened to meet Dana, Co-Founder of The Guestbook. She asked me if I knew anyone like me who might be interested in a job with The Guestbook. After a few short talks it went from knowing someone “like me” to actually me if I was interested. I just happened to be in California at the time and was able to get an interview with Jim, our CEO. That interview required a pit stop for some business attire as I was in California casual mode, but as you can see, it worked out great!
What do you like about working at The Guestbook?
I love that we control our technology and that we can create a new product in a matter of days or weeks. I also really appreciate the fact that we are very member and partner focused. It all comes down to relationships.
What future innovations and/or challenges do you see coming up for hotel loyalty programs?
I’m really curious about the use of AI. As a tech geek, I see this as a great addition to the loyalty world, however my OPS side tells me you can never really know what the user wants. There is also a big concern with privacy these days so I am not sure how far AI will go. AI is great but there is nothing more annoying that chatting with a bot, which of course you will never get with The Guestbook!
What hobbies/activities do you do outside of work?
I enjoy making beer, working on my classic cars, cooking and just tinkering in general. Although lately it has been mostly making beer and cooking since we haven’t had the opportunity to drive our cars. Fun fact: Apparently they don’t break if you don’t drive them!
What is your favorite city?
Juchipila Zacatecas, Mexico
Your favorite food or cuisine?
Steak! Nothing better than a medium rare prime NY steak.
Favorite movie?
At the moment, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
And lastly, if you were on an island and could only bring 3 things, what would they be?
A boat to get off the island… I don’t like sand..😂 But if I was stranded with only 3 things – that would be a Bluetooth speaker with all my music (solar powered so it doesn’t die), my tools (you can do anything with the right tool) and my seasonings – because nobody likes bland food.
