The Sandals Foundation, part of Sandals Resorts, has been going since 2009. Karen Zacca ensures its community, educational and environmental projects throughout the Caribbean are on track. She describes what her job involves.
My typical day at work involves…
Most mornings I start my day with a cup of coffee. I spend some quiet time in my room anticipating the busy day ahead and then I watch the morning news. It’s so important to know what has happened in the world while we have been sleeping. And then my day begins. As I step into the office I check on my colleagues.
That relationship is important, and having a positive work environment makes for a better day. My job is to ensure that all aspects of each project is organised and executed efficiently. This involves an enormous amount of follow-up and attention to detail, ensuring that both the needs of the donor and the recipient are being met.
I’ve been I my job for…
Five years. I was previously with Sandals Resorts for 10 years as the project manager for the Uniform Programme. That experience prepared me for my current job. It taught me how to deal with people and their needs and it also helped me to improve my skills in communication and project management. Both jobs have proved to be a natural fit for me, and my passion to help people in the best way I can.
I transitioned to work with the Sandals Foundation as I had a desire to continue working in the Sandals family, but focusing on the philanthropic side of the business. This satisfied my humanitarian interest in seeing what people’s needs are and how best I can help them.
The most rewarding part of my job is…
That I am able to have a positive impact and see first-hand, lives changing for the better.
I am always busy, always finding solutions but I never seem to mind the hustle and bustle, as I know that no matter what I am doing, it will make a difference for someone else.
The most challenging part of my job is…
The inability to help everyone. It breaks my heart sometimes to not be able to say ‘Yes, we will help you’.
My favourite destination is…
Any location that has an outreach project taking place. I love working with the hotel team to plan a visit and go out in to the local community with guests. Travelling is part of the job. I’m away from my desk at least once a week for an outreach activity or visiting projects to see how they are progressing.
The most common thing I am asked is…
‘Do you love your job?’ That is a no-brainer – yes!
The worst thing that’s happened at work is…
I can’t think of a single, terrible work experience. I’ve been waiting for the bad day and it has not come as yet. I am so blessed in my job.
If I was to be stuck on a deserted island I would take…
Some good friends. What’s life worth without good friends and laughter.