Name: Michelle Dias
Position: Marketing Manager, Public Relations & Communications
Education: Media, Information and Technoculture (MIT), Minor in Philosophy & Writing Certificate, Western University; Corporate Communications, Sheridan College
Professional role model: Sheryl Sandberg. She is the Chief Operating Officer at Facebook, an author and the “Lean In” activist. In learning about Sheryl, I see many parallels in her bold personality and ambition with myself. Her drive, work ethic and message of advocating for one’s self are traits that I have adopted in my own career.
In 140 characters or less, what is your favourite part of your job?
Working with passionate hoteliers from across Canada to promote IHG’s brands. The hospitality industry is always open; it’s very exciting.
What are your daily responsibilities?
My goal at the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is to promote our Canadian properties through creative marketing, public relations and social media campaigns. I work with a very talented corporate team across the globe and various agencies to tell the IHG story of: outstanding hospitality, marquee brands and Great Hotels Guests Love.
My invitation for a facial at the Miraj Hammam Spa inside Toronto’s Shangri-La hotel could not have come at a better time, as I had a chance to exfoliate my skin a few days before a portrait session.
Time flies when you’re in a luxurious and relaxing environment being pampered by a professional esthetician. The reception area was quiet when I arrived on a weeknight and inside the atmosphere was even more tranquil. The overall interior design is kind of dark, so it might make you sleepy if you go in the morning or afternoon.
If you like taking pictures of your shoes, so what? No big deal. Personally I love taking shoefies and I’m not the only one because celebrities are on board with this popular Instagram trend too.
Likewise, shoe brands are capitalizing on the trend to connect with consumers and discover more user-generated content. Adidas recently worked with Wunderman to build relationships with youth in India whereby they encouraged shoppers to explore their communities in sneakers and document their travels. The campaign was a success and over 5,000 shofies were taken using the designated hashtags.
When I anticipated eating a special brunch at World MasterCard Fashion Week inside the tent, I knew the food would be better than quick service fare, but Flare and Metro’s chefs exceeded my expectations. As soon as Flare’s editor-in-chief Cameron Williamson humbly introduced himself at the entrance, I knew I was in for a treat. Soon we were offered glasses of sparkling water and then escorted to the beautifully decorated main room, where a long candlelit table extended down the runway.
It was the kind of event where everyone shared my enthusiasm for Texture by Next Issue and that made me happy. We all enjoyed a delicious four course meal, which included a beet salad, mushroom pasta, fish and dessert, and each course was introduced by a different chef and model.
