Meet the Team: Todd Sweeney

With over 15 years of hospitality experience, Todd is looking forward to helping the next generation find their feet and build sustainable careers in the industry.

Todd has recently joined CTA’s team as our newest Training Specialist. He is excited to transfer his vast knowledge and broad experience within the industry into new and exciting contexts, nurturing the skills of his future students.

Catching up with Todd

Tell us a bit about yourself.

We are fortunate to live at Cotton Tree on the Sunshine Coast near the water, enjoy outdoor and water activities and the outdoor space at our home – which is gradually being renovating.

What was your career journey prior to starting at CTA?

I have worked in community clubs for the last 20 years. Being a part of an award winning team at Maroochy Surf Club, where as gaming nominee we won best small gaming room in Qld 2 years running (finalist the 3rd year – just missed joining the hall of fame) and Best Large Surf Club in Qld. Moved to Club Maroochy (Bowls Club) for more family friendly hours, the joke was I moved to work closer to home – a 100m walk instead of 350m! After 3 years there, achieved 3rd place in the Clubs Qld – club of the year award – boutique. I was proud of this given the timeframe and changes undertaken with the board.

Quite focused on surf lifesaving both as a volunteer and employee for Surf Lifesaving Queensland during my time at Maroochy Surf. A highlight going to Japan on exchange to train lifesaving on Japanese beaches.

What encouraged you to enter the hospitality industry as a trainer?

During my time at the surf club my heavy involvement in surf lifesaving was at a club, branch and state levels as well as national titles. During this time I spent a vast amount of my time training and assessing various levels of surf lifesaving awards (surf had become a RTO) including bronze medallion, first aid, advanced resuscitation and communications (with a stint as communications advisor for SLSQ). Becoming a hospitality trainer meant i could meld my passion for training and hospitality together.

If you can only eat one type of food for the rest of your life. What food would that be?

Qld banana’s (which gets some looks considering I am a New South Welshman)

What has been your favourite thing about the hospitality industry?

The people – after all is said and done – it’s the people that matter; colleagues, customers, volunteers

What would you consider to be your hospitality superpower?

Growth and development – its so exciting to be contributing to, initiating or empowering people and organisations with positive growth and development

How would you describe the future of hospitality in Australia?

Strong and vibrant – the dynamic will continue to change, it’s about experiences and being social, providing the opportunity for people to enjoy themselves. I also believe the olympics will have a significant affect in this region.