CIHA - Our Students’ Success Stories

How can the CIHA propel you to new heights? Siraphop Watthanabaramisakun shares how the CIHA has been helping him progress in his career at Minor Hotels in Thailand. Mathew Kiran John talks about how the CIHA has helped him in his career journey at Minor Hotels properties in the Maldives. The two professionals joined AIHM from different countries and different departments—Siraphop from the Rooms division and Mathew from Engineering—both with the desire and motivation to fill in the gaps in their hospitality expertise, to boost their leadership abilities and to reach increasingly new heights in their careers over the years to come.

Read on to learn about earning the CIHA has impacted their career development.

The AIHM Effect: CIHA Graduates

What can a Certificate in International Hotel Administration do for your career (or the careers of the individuals you manage)? We spoke to two of our recent graduates to find out how the CIHA has impacted their professional skills and career progression so far.

The CIHA is an 18-month programme that comprises 12 months of study at AIHM’s Bangkok campus plus a 6-month workplace project or internship. Students sponsored by their employers complete the capstone project at the hotel or resort where they’re employed.

Designed especially for working professionals, the CIHA is ideal for individuals who aspire to a career in a hotel management and who already have significant hospitality experience but who have not yet had the opportunity to study management and gain the leadership skills needed to take their career to the next levels.

Siraphop Watthanabaramisakun 

On Career Progression

I was promoted to Assistant Front Office Manager at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel after graduating in March 2023, and I was then promoted again to Front Office Manager at Anantara Bophut Koh Samui (one of the stars of The White Lotus Season 3) in April 2024.

On CIHA Programme Highlights

I enjoyed all the academic parts—they were very engaging and fascinating. It was great to learn so many things beyond my knowledge of Rooms operations. I particularly liked a course on International Hospitality and Tourism where we had to present a comprehensive hotel concept. That course, in particular, was incredibly fun and inspiring, sparking a lot of new ideas.

On Employer Support

My previous Director of People and Culture, Mr. Prakit Thapa, suggested the opportunity to me and first asked if I’d be interested in joining. After careful consideration and reviewing all the information provided, I decided to enroll.

I’d also like to thank Mr. Mark O’Sullivan and all the other managers who supported me throughout this journey, especially my Front Office Manager at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, Mr. Steven Tseng, who was promoted to Assistant Director of Rooms. He offered me invaluable support, both mentally and professionally, along the way.

On Professional Relationships

My professional perspective has broadened significantly after completing the programme. I learned so many things relevant to my work, my current role and my position. The class called Managing Diversity in the Global Workplace, taught by AIHM’s Academic Dean Warren Stanworth, was particularly helpful. I learned how to approach different situations, collaborate effectively, and manage others’ expectations, among other valuable skills.

On Applying New Skills

I gained so many new skills and a lot of new knowledge during my studies at AIHM! Some of the most important areas of my own growth were the ways the CIHA helped me really enhance my people management skills, including those focused on diversity and cultural understanding.

On Future Goals

As a hotelier, my ultimate career goal is to become a General Manager. I understand that it’s a long journey that requires dedication, experience and a deep understanding of the industry. However, I am confident that the hands-on experience I've gained, along with the comprehensive knowledge and skills acquired from my time at AIHM, have equipped me with a strong foundation. These tools will enable me to overcome challenges and continually grow in my field, bringing me closer to achieving this goal with each step.

Mathew John Kiran

On Career Progression

After completing the Certificate programme at AIHM, my career took a positive turn. The skills and knowledge I gained equipped me to take on more responsibilities, which ultimately led to a promotion. I transitioned from an entry-level position to a more advanced role where I now manage key projects and lead a small team. The Certificate helped me stand out to my employers and demonstrated my commitment to personal and professional growth.

On CIHA Programme Highlights

The project-based learning in the programme was incredibly valuable. One standout project was a simulated industry scenario where we had to develop a complete strategy from start to finish. This hands-on approach allowed me to apply theory to real-world situations, strengthening my problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. The mentorship from industry professionals also gave me insights into current best practices, which have been instrumental in my role.

On Employer Support

My employer was very supportive of my decision to enroll in the programme. They encouraged me to take the time for professional development and even offered flexible hours during certain modules. Since completing the Certificate, they have continued to support me by involving me in more challenging projects and encouraging me to apply what I learned. Their support has reinforced my sense of loyalty and motivation to contribute even more to the organisation.

On Professional Relationships

The programme has positively impacted my relationships with colleagues and supervisors. By gaining new skills and perspectives, I’ve been able to contribute more effectively to team projects and engage in more meaningful discussions.

Supervisors have noticed my improved confidence and leadership abilities, which has led to a stronger professional rapport. This has also fostered better collaboration and trust within the team.

On Applying New Skills

The Certificate programme taught me strategic thinking, which I now apply regularly in my job. For instance, I recently led a project that required careful planning and execution. Using the project management skills I gained, I was able to streamline processes, set clear milestones, and ensure the team stayed on track, which resulted in a successful project completion ahead of schedule.

On Future Goals

My future career goal is to move into a senior management position. The Certificate programme has laid a strong foundation for this by equipping me with leadership and strategic skills. It has helped me see the bigger picture and understand how I can contribute to organisational success. Additionally, the confidence I gained from completing the programme motivates me to keep pursuing growth opportunities and further my career trajectory.

Ready for a Career Boost?

You know you’ve got what it takes to succeed. You have the motivation. You have the dedication. You have the ability to grow your skills and step up—if only you had the opportunity.

The Certificate in International Hotel Administration could be exactly the opportunity you’re looking for. Request more info now.

Develop Your Team from Within

Are you a General Manager or L&D Specialist looking for ways to promote from within your team and to give your highest potential team members the tools to contribute even more to your hotel and organisation? AIHM’s Certificate programmes help aspiring managers to build the skillsets they need to step up and succeed.

Chief Operating Officer of Minor Education, Chris Meylan, explains AIHM’s hotel management certificate programmes and the different tracks available. Learn about the differences between our hospitality management certificates and how they empower your team members to grow with you.