Scott Yandrasevich is a seasoned professional with a strong background in hospitality management and entrepreneurship. Born and raised in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, Scott developed a passion for leadership and service early on, which he honed through his education at Johnson & Wales University, where he earned his undergraduate degree, and later at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he obtained a Master’s Degree in Hospitality Management.
Throughout his career, Scott has demonstrated a remarkable ability to navigate the complexities of the hospitality industry, holding various leadership roles that have allowed him to showcase his skills in management, operations, and customer service. His tenure as a Distinguished Lieutenant Governor for Kiwanis Club International is a testament to his commitment to community service and leadership, a role in which he successfully led initiatives that benefited numerous communities.
Scott’s career is characterized by his entrepreneurial spirit and his dedication to continuous improvement. He is known for his ability to build strong relationships, his keen attention to detail, and his adaptability in the face of changing market dynamics. These qualities have not only propelled his career but also earned him a reputation as a trusted and innovative leader in the industry.
An avid boater and pilot, Scott brings the same level of precision and passion to his personal pursuits as he does to his professional life. He remains dedicated to exploring new opportunities and contributing to the growth and success of the hospitality sector.
What motivates you when things get tough?
When things get tough, I’m motivated by the knowledge that challenges are opportunities in disguise. I’ve always believed that adversity tests our true strength and character, pushing us to grow beyond our comfort zones. The satisfaction of overcoming obstacles, coupled with the lessons learned along the way, drives me to keep pushing forward. Additionally, I find motivation in the support of my family and close colleagues, whose belief in me reinforces my determination to succeed. Ultimately, the vision of achieving my goals and the fulfillment that comes with perseverance keeps me going even when the road gets rough.
Tell us 3 surprisingly easy and 3 surprisingly difficult things about your job.
Surprisingly Easy
- Establishing rapport with people has always come naturally to me, whether it’s with colleagues, clients, or partners. I enjoy connecting with others, which makes networking and collaboration easier.
- Adapting to new situations and challenges is something I’ve always found manageable. I thrive in dynamic environments where I can learn and evolve continuously.
- I find it easy to focus on the finer details of projects, ensuring that everything is aligned with the bigger picture. This precision has helped me avoid costly mistakes.
Surprisingly Difficult:
- Despite my efforts, balancing professional responsibilities with personal time can be challenging. The demands of my career often spill over into personal time, making it hard to switch off.
- Trusting others to take over tasks has been difficult for me. I tend to be hands-on and prefer to oversee every aspect of a project, which sometimes leads to micromanagement.
- I find it tough to abandon ideas or projects that don’t pan out. Even when it’s clear that something isn’t working, I struggle with moving on because of the time and effort invested.
What are the 3 things you like best about your work and why?
The three things I like best about my work are the diversity of tasks, the opportunity to lead, and the sense of accomplishment. The variety in my work keeps things interesting and prevents monotony, as I’m constantly learning and applying new skills. Leadership is another aspect I enjoy because it allows me to inspire and guide others toward achieving shared goals. Lastly, the sense of accomplishment when a project is completed successfully is deeply satisfying—it validates all the hard work and dedication put into it. These elements make my work not only challenging but also incredibly rewarding.
What are the three things you need in work to achieve purpose? Why are they important to you?
To achieve purpose in my work, I need clear goals, a strong support system, and continuous learning. Clear goals are essential because they give direction and focus, allowing me to measure progress and stay on track. A strong support system—whether from colleagues, mentors, or family—is crucial because it provides encouragement, different perspectives, and the motivation to keep going during tough times. Finally, continuous learning is important because it ensures that I’m always improving and adapting to new challenges, which is key to staying relevant and achieving long-term success.
Tell us about a time where you saw a surprising outcome that you did not expect.
There was a time when a project I was leading took an unexpected turn due to unforeseen market changes. We had anticipated a certain response from our target audience, but the outcome was completely different. Initially, I was taken aback, but I quickly regrouped with my team to analyze the situation. We learned that our assumptions were flawed, and this led to a valuable lesson about the importance of staying adaptable and open to change. The experience taught me that flexibility and quick thinking are essential when facing the unexpected.
How do you get yourself out of a funk?
When I find myself in a funk, I take a step back and engage in an activity that I enjoy, such as fly fishing or boating. These hobbies allow me to disconnect from work and clear my mind. I also find it helpful to revisit my goals and remind myself of what I’m working toward, which helps to reignite my motivation. Talking things over with a trusted friend or mentor can also provide new perspectives and solutions that I might not have considered. Overall, changing my environment and mindset usually helps me get back on track.
What is a habit you try to stick to and how has it helped you?
One habit I try to stick to is daily reflection. At the end of each day, I take a few minutes to think about what I accomplished, what challenges I faced, and what I can do better tomorrow. This habit has helped me maintain a continuous loop of improvement, allowing me to learn from each day’s experiences. It keeps me focused on my goals and ensures that I’m always moving forward, even if only by small steps.
How do you celebrate your victories?
I believe in celebrating victories, both big and small, because it’s important to recognize and appreciate the hard work that went into achieving them. I usually start by sharing the success with my team or loved ones, as it’s always more rewarding to celebrate together. Depending on the significance of the achievement, I might treat myself to something special or take a day off to recharge. Reflecting on what went well and how we got there is also part of the celebration, as it helps to reinforce positive practices for future success.
Who is your favorite motivational speaker and why?
My favorite motivational speaker is Simon Sinek. His focus on the importance of understanding your “why” resonates with me deeply. Sinek’s philosophy that people and organizations should know their purpose before taking action has been a guiding principle in my career. His talks and books remind me to align my work with my core values and to inspire others by leading with purpose. This approach has not only motivated me personally but has also influenced how I lead and manage teams.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
The advice I would give to my younger self is to take more calculated risks and not be afraid of failure. Looking back, I realize that some of my biggest growth moments came from situations where I stepped out of my comfort zone. Fear of failure can hold you back, but in reality, every failure is just a stepping stone toward success. I would also tell myself to value relationships more, as the connections you make along the way are invaluable to both personal and professional growth.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If yes, what is the best way to reach you?
Yes, I am willing to be a mentor because I believe in the importance of sharing knowledge and helping others grow. Mentorship has played a significant role in my own development, and I’m eager to give back. The best way to reach me would be through professional networks or by email, as I find these channels effective for setting up discussions and follow-ups. I’m particularly interested in mentoring those who are passionate about hospitality, management, or entrepreneurship.
Just for fun, what is your favorite food?
Visually, my favorite food is sushi. I love the combination of flavors and the artistry involved in its preparation. Whether it’s a simple roll or an elaborate sashimi platter, sushi always feels like a treat to me. The variety it offers means you never get bored, and it’s a dish to enjoy both as a quick lunch or a more leisurely meal with friends. Plus, it’s a healthy option that aligns with my lifestyle, making it a win-win.