Monique Beck - Tavern Supervisor

Monique’s path to Sodexo was anything but a straight line. Before finding her home with us, she explored over 20 different roles around the world. From landscaping to nannying, and from bartending to working as a chef, she embraced every opportunity to learn.

"Each of these experiences taught me valuable skills and lessons unique to their industries," Monique reflects. "They helped me discover what I truly enjoy and where my strengths lie."

Joining Sodexo marked a turning point when she started as a casual floating staff member after a challenging personal experience. What began as a way to work and travel quickly evolved into something much more meaningful when she discovered the community at West Pilbara Village.

"I immediately felt that I had found somewhere I could truly call home," she says. "Sodexo became not just a job, but the foundation of a long-term career."

Her story proves that a career doesn't need to follow a traditional script to be successful. By being willing to pivot and try new things, Monique developed the adaptability and resilience that now define her leadership style.

In the bar and retail department, Monique has found her true passion: people. She sees her role as creating positive, memorable experiences that make every customer feel valued. "To be able to make someone smile and just uplift their day even a small amount is my main aim in life," she explains. "This job gives me that opportunity every single day."

Monique takes pride in the small details—memorising regulars' orders, asking about their families, and understanding the challenges of working away from home. She knows that for many residents, the tavern isn't just a place to grab a drink; it's a space to decompress and connect.

However, building a career in this industry hasn't been without its challenges. Starting as a casual employee who travelled for half the year, Monique had to work twice as hard to prove her reliability and commitment to management. She also navigated the complexities of a male-dominated industry, learning to speak up and stand her ground, which was essential.

"I had to build trust quickly, demonstrate reliability, and show that I was willing to take initiative," she notes. Today, she uses those experiences to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable, cared for, and safe. 

For other women stepping into similar roles, Monique’s advice is simple yet profound: chase happiness, not just the corporate ladder.

"Be fully yourself in the role, because you can’t truly shine without embracing who you are," she says. "Choose what you love, pursue it with passion, and never stop striving for the future you want."

Monique’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of human connection. She is a Trailblazer who reminds us that when we choose boldly and lead with heart, our potential is limitless.