Opportunity finds those willing to go the extra mile – Kevin Thoresen

In hospitality, opportunity often finds the people willing to go the extra mile.

From the PIHMS campus in Taranaki to leading a 140-strong team in Australia’s capital, Kevin Thoresen’s journey is a clear example of how far a career in hospitality can take you and how quickly it can evolve.

Today, Kevin is General Manager of the Avenue Hotel in Canberra, the flagship property of Capital Hotels. In his role, he oversees all aspects of operations, human resources and facility management, leading a large and diverse team in a fast-paced environment where no two days are ever the same.

But his story starts at PIHMS.

Building the Foundations

Kevin graduated from PIHMS in 2016 with a Bachelor of Hotel Management, drawn to the school’s balanced approach to learning.

“PIHMS stood out because of the mix of academic study and practical experience  plus the opportunity to work abroad during placements. That combination made it feel like more than just a degree.”

That hands-on approach quickly proved its value.

“One of the things I enjoyed most was the real-life exposure to hotel operations. You’re not just learning theory – you’re applying it every day. It also introduces you to an international network of hoteliers early on, which becomes incredibly valuable later.”

PIHMS didn’t just teach Kevin the fundamentals of hospitality – it helped position him for what came next.

“It gave me the skillset and knowledge base that supported my candidacy for leadership programmes and roles that fast-tracked my career.”

Outside of study, life in Taranaki left a lasting impression.

“It’s a wonderful place to live and study. Having the beach within walking distance of campus and panoramic views of Mount Taranaki  you couldn’t ask for a more picture-perfect location.”

From Graduate to General Manager

Like many graduates, stepping into the workforce came with its challenges – but for Kevin, the PIHMS alumni network played a crucial role.

“Joining the workforce can be daunting, but PIHMS has a strong alumni network that opens doors. Through that network, I secured my first full-time role as a Front Office Receptionist with TFE Hotels – and my career took off from there.”

From that first role, Kevin steadily progressed through the ranks, building experience across operations and leadership, ultimately stepping into his current role as General Manager.

Along the way, one of the biggest rewards has been the lifestyle the industry offers.

“I’ve always loved the universal nature of hospitality — the ability to work anywhere in the world. I’m proud that I’ve been able to share those travel experiences with my family and friends through industry opportunities.”

Leading People, Growing Careers

Ask Kevin what he enjoys most about his role, and the answer is clear – it’s all about people.

“I take great pride in seeing others grow and develop. There’s nothing better than hiring someone with potential and watching their career progress.”

Working within a group that values internal progression has made that even more meaningful.

“You’re not just managing a hotel – you’re helping shape careers.”

It’s a perspective that reflects hospitality at its best: an industry built on people, service and shared success.

An Industry Full of Opportunity

For Kevin, hospitality continues to evolve in exciting ways.

“I’m particularly interested in the growth of apartment hotels and the rise of traveller independence  that ‘home away from home’ experience. It’s changing how people travel and how we operate as an industry.”

That evolution is exactly what makes hospitality such an appealing career path.

“It’s dynamic, and the opportunities can surprise you. Whether your interests are in operations, revenue, marketing, finance, business management or even tech — it can all start with a foundation in hospitality.”

Looking Ahead

For now, Kevin is focused on both professional and personal milestones including an exciting new chapter outside of work.

“I’m looking forward to becoming a dad, and I’m grateful to be in a role that allows for a level of work-life balance, even in an operationally demanding environment.”

For current and future PIHMS students, Kevin’s advice is simple:

“Hospitality is a fun, fast-paced industry that’s fundamentally about service. Keep asking what you can do to help, and how you can go the extra mile opportunities will find you.”

And as his journey shows, those opportunities can take you further than you ever imagined.