Retirement of Denis Jenkins, National Manager of Hospitality Services
Massey University National Manager of Hospitality Services Denis Jenkins has retired from his role after nearly 17 years with the University.
In January 2006, Denis joined Massey University as the General Manager of Commercial Operation, bringing with him a wealth of experience from the hospitality industry. Previously the General Manager of award-winning Gibbston Valley Winery near Queenstown, and owner of four restaurants between Queenstown and Auckland. Denis was also a tutor in hospitality at Otago Polytechnic.
Born in Stirling, Scotland Denis is a qualified chef and has a degree in hotel management from Napier University, Edinburgh.
When Denis started his role at Massey University, his aim was to expand the reach of Wharerata and the Sport & Rugby Institute to be recognised as first class facilities in the local, regional and national market. In 2016 his role expanded to National Manager of Hospitality Service encompassing the all three campus'; Albany, Manawatū and Wellington.
During his 16 & half years , Denis notes career highlights as hosting the Argentinian Rugby team at the Sport & Rugby Institute for the 2011 Rugby World Cup, chairing the RWC2011 committee for the wider Manawatū region in conjunction with PNCC and Manawatu Rugby. His number one highlight though, working with an amazing team of dedicated professionals in a hospitality business that provides a high level of service within an educational institution.
When asked what he loved about his role Denis explains “it’s being responsible for the planning and service required to deliver happiness and satisfaction to those either attending or hosting. The scale of the event is immaterial, whether it’s dinner for four or a garden party for 400. Their smiles during and after the event is the ultimate reward”.
As Denis enters this next chapter after a long career of service to both the Hospitality sector and Massey University, he’ll be looking forward to having time to enjoy the simpler things in life; friends, family, gardening, cooking, spending time with his grandchildren and getting his golf handicap back under control.
Denis has been a vital part of the hospitality sector, Massey University and the wider community. From the Wharerata team, we’re sad to see him go and know he’ll be missed right across the University.
“it’s being responsible for the planning and service required to deliver happiness and satisfaction to those either attending or hosting. The scale of the event is immaterial, whether it’s dinner for four or a garden party for 400. Their smiles during and after the event is the ultimate reward.”