We had the good fortune of connecting with David Hutton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David, what role has risk played in your life or career?
You have to take risks, if you never take risks you will never accomplish your dreams. We all have been faced with decisions in life where one option is more riskier than the other. I am a thinker, and if time allows I like to sleep on my options so I am more comfortable when making them. Sometimes there is no time to sleep on a decision as one needs to be made in the moment. I consider myself a risk taker, and would say for the most part I am where I am because I have taken risks. When I moved to LA seven years ago, there were many individuals who tried to discourage me; it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a General Manager with Marriott Hotels. This year marks 19 years in the hotel industry. I started off as a bellhop in High School and worked my way up to a General Manager. I think what sets me apart from others is my kindness. I am kind to my team and hotel guests alike. I am able to put myself in my team members shoes as I was once them. I am most proud that I made the goal of General Manager, and in a Tier 1 Market like Los Angeles, California. Was it easy? No, Hotels are demanding work with lots of hours required to succeed. I was able to persevere with drive, motivation from mentors who inspired me, and working for companies that invested in my growth. One main lesson I have learned is Life is a Marathon, and the Marathon continues. My story is one of millions, and all of our paths our different. The only advice I can share is trust the process, never give up, and be the hardest worker in the room.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I am definitely a foodie and LA has some phenomenal restaurants. Javiers, Din Tai Fung, Mastro’s, Nobu, Catch, Crustacean, Shamshiri Grill, and can’t forget Inn & Out. I enjoy a great cocktail and night on the town so would have to hit up Poppy, Jones, Mama Shelter, and the Peppermint Club. After all the eating and drinking would take them to Runyon Canyon to break a sweat and some Hollywood Sign Photo ops. A little sight seeing to include Marilyn Monroe’s grave and maybe some shopping on Rodeo Drive. Have to hit the beach while on the West Coast and catch a Lakers or Dodgers game!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
If I had to shoutout someone or something, it would be “The Struggle”. I had a very humble upbringing, and always wanted more. Every struggle in my life has shaped me into the person I am today. I am thankful for the hard times because they made me stronger. The reward is not so great without the struggle.

Instagram: @davidshutton
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/david-hutton-6838096b