Pina Purpero is the general manager of Hyatt Regency Lake Washington in Renton. The hotel, which marries the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest with modern amenities, is a recent AAA Four Diamond award winner. Learn about Pina Purpero…
Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
First job: Working at my father’s juice company putting bottles on the production line. Definitely not my favorite job, but I learned to work hard.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in WA: Hiking is my favorite. Fresh air, soaking in the sun and scenic views.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: From the moment I was hired as a corporate management trainee, my goal was to become a general manager and reaching that position five years ago was amazing and such a fulfilling accomplishment.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: I’m not sure I think of anything as an obstacle, but rather moments that shift perspective and hopefully teach and guide life decisions. There have been many as I’ve navigated my career, and the 2020 pandemic is certainly at the top of the list.
Someone who inspires you and why: My sister battled cancer with the most optimistic and positive outlook. I try hard to honor her by finding joy and gratitude in each day.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Treat every job, every position, as an extended interview for the position you are working toward.
Favorite quote: Hard work has always led me to the right opportunity at the right time, so I love the quote by Estee Lauder: “I didn’t get there by wishing for it or hoping for it, but by working for it.”
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I am a certified wedding officiant and during the pandemic have become the official officiant for the hotel, helping many couples reimagine their wedding in a unique and special way.
What makes someone fabulous: Being fabulous is having the guts to not try to be like anyone else. Just be you and you’ll be fabulous!