Originally from Lebanon, Firas El-Zein has built an international career in hospitality that has taken him from hotel operations in Canada to the business hub of Dubai. A graduate of NC’s Business – Sales and Marketing program, he credits his NC experience with strenghtening the communication, sales, and strategic thinking skills that continue to guide his success. The hands-on learning and global perspective he gained at NC gave him the confidence to pursue opportunities abroad and grow into leadership roles within a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry.
Current role and career path
I’m currently a Senior Consultant in Hotel Asset Management at Colliers, based in Dubai. I work with hotel owners and investors to optimize the performance and value of their assets, providing strategic oversight, financial analysis, and operational guidance.
My career began in Canada with roles in hotel operations and guest services at Marriott International. I progressed into commercial and revenue-focused positions, where I developed a strong foundation in hotel performance and strategic planning. Over time, I shifted into hotel advisory and asset management, where I now combine my operational experience with data-driven decision-making to support hospitality investments across the Middle East.
Influences and inspiration
Hospitality appealed to me early on because of its dynamic nature and human connection. I was inspired by leaders who showed me how service, business strategy, and guest experience intersect to create long-term value. I’ve made the industry my own by blending front-line operational experience with a strong focus on data, owner objectives, and long-term asset value. Today, I operate on the advisory side of the industry, but my service-oriented roots still shape how I approach relationships and problem-solving.
Standout NC experience
Niagara College was a launchpad. The emphasis on real-world projects, industry interaction, and collaborative learning helped me develop essential soft and hard skills, from strategic thinking to public speaking. It also gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities in Canada and abroad. That practical foundation set the tone for how I approached my first jobs and the professional standards I carried with me into my career.
Memorable moments
Yes, I participated in multiple industry competitions, including the Ontario Colleges’ Marketing Competition, the Canadian Sales & Marketing Competition, and the Niagara College Sales Competition. These experiences were intense but incredibly rewarding. They sharpened my sales, presentation, and communication skills, and gave me a taste of high-pressure business environments. The mentorship I received while preparing for these challenges was just as impactful as the competitions themselves.
Words of wisdom
Hospitality and business are both fast-evolving fields that reward adaptability, resilience, and people skills. My advice is to embrace every opportunity to learn, especially the uncomfortable ones. Start with a learner’s mindset, be open to feedback, and build strong relationships. Niagara College’s Business – Sales and Marketing program equips you with the fundamentals of business and the practical communication and teamwork skills that are essential in the real world. It prepared me not just to succeed in entry-level roles, but to grow into leadership and strategic positions later on.
