You run the Trump International Hotel & Tower New York, but you have no background in hospitality. How did that happen?

Walking into the world of hospitality was a rebirth for me. Previously, I had a career as a professional ballet dancer. Due to an injury, I was unable to dance and I struggled to find a new identity for myself. At first, I ventured into retail sales, and through my retail experience, I segued into hospitality. My time in hospitality, really resonated with my memories of childhood, and helping my grandmother preparing for our large family gatherings. She loved nothing more than welcoming people into her home and she made it her mission to acknowledge everyone’s individual preferences; from making your favourite dish to laying out special linen. Our grandmother’s home felt like home to everyone. Stepping into hospitality reminded me of this time with my grandmother. And I began to create these special moments for my guests.

You identify as a black, gay man. You used to be a pro ballet dancer. Most people wouldn’t associate you with the Trump administration. Your comments?

I think it is most important to clarify that Trump Hotels has no political affiliation. What many people may not know about Trump International Hotel & Tower New York is that each of our 176 guest rooms is individually owned. The hotel and condominium have boards made up of these owners working closely with Trump Hotels to maximise the revenues for these owners.

As the leader of this iconic hotel, I encourage and welcome every type of visitor and employee. When I navigate through the interview process for potential employees, the question of religious belief, sexual preference, race, and political views are never a part of my dialogue. I am looking for the best of the best, and those who embody our five-star service standards. Yes, I am a very proud African-American gay male. But I also think that sets the tone for how we welcome people from all walks of life to the hotel. And, I hope that the position I have achieved inspires others to one day sit in the seat that I sit.

You took over the hotel right around the US election. There were large-scale protests just outside your doors. Tell us about that time.

That was an interesting time in my new position. What was most disappointing was seeing how people reacted towards differences. There were many points of my life where I had to overcome being different in some way. I would have hoped that as a community we would have respected difference of opinion respectfully.

As with any great leader, my greatest attention was directed on my employees, my guests and my residents. I was proud of my ability to motivate our team and continue to drive them in creating a luxury experience for our guests and residents.

You’ve undertaken a multi-million-dollar renovation. What’s changed?

Undertaking a $20 million renovation was one of the most exciting opportunities in my career. We took this occasion to incorporate feedback from our customers and our partners at Forbes Travel Guide. In doing so, we have created a more youthful, energetic, and luxurious atmosphere.

For many years our hotel was synonymous with the colour gold. After 22 years, we found our guests were evolving and we needed to evolve with them. We introduced a new colour palette of cool gray, adding a crisp, white crown molding and base. In the bathrooms, we brought in chrome Kohler fixtures, a new marble vanity, we added glass panels to our showers and soaking tubes accentuating the size of the bathroom.

The hallways were a total transformation. As the elevator doors open, our guests are surprised and delighted to find that the mirror and fabric panels have been replaced by a woven wooden accent wall, LED crystal chandeliers and custom sconces. It is rewarding to welcome our guests back and see their amazement and joy in the renovation.

What’s the best New York advice you’ve received from your concierge?

That the word ‘no’ from a vendor is a starting point. When it comes to fulfilling a request from one of our guests, we do what it takes to get it done. We may start with a no, but we are relentless in our efforts to get a successful result.

Three secrets about the Trump Hotel you can share with us.

We have a state-of-the-art fitness facility that features an indoor heated saltwater pool. And, it is exclusive to our guests and residents. Most nights you can get a glimpse of Michelin-star chef, Jean-Georges himself as he is actively involved in the culinary preparation, presentation and service in his restaurants; Nougatine by Jean-Georges and his Michelin star restaurant, Jean-Georges.

Aside from all of our room offerings, we are the only hotel on Central Park that has an unobstructed, floor-to-ceiling window view of the park. And, for me, this is truly the art within the building. I like to refer to it as moving art; ever changing with the lighting throughout the day and the seasons.

You’re very active in the NY dance community. What would you recommend a visitor to NY do and see?

I’m most often found at Lincoln Center. In my opinion, it is the epicentre for the arts, serving as the home to American Ballet Theater, the New York City Ballet, Metropolitan Opera, and Broadway Shows. Lincoln Center is steps away from Trump International Hotel & Tower New York, and I strongly recommend our visitors take advantage of all Lincoln Center has to offer.

You’ve also written a series of children’s books. What prompted that?

I’ve always had a love for writing and a love for children. On most weekends and holidays, you will find me surrounded by a numerous number of nieces, nephews and cousins. I wanted to find a way to incorporate my expertise in the luxury hospitality world to teach and inspire etiquette to the guest of tomorrow. The teachings in the book are the actual teachings my mother taught me. I found them so valuable I wanted to share them with the world. The experiences that I have gone through over the past 2 years have inspired me to write the latest book in my children’s series.

And seriously, where do you find the time? What’s your secret?

That’s a funny question. I manage a luxury hotel and building, I am the Chair of the American Ballet Theater’s Young Patrons’ Council. I’ve just completed my second children’s book, and I still have time for my family. That is a question I am often asked. The only answer I can give is that you will find time to do the things that you love the most.