From Floors To Leadership
At Kanso FM, we’re proud to support the growth of every team member. In this Q&A, we speak with Neli, who joined us as an Executive Housekeeper and is now thriving in her role as Senior Area Manager. Her story is one of ambition, commitment, and care.
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We invite you to enjoy the following Q&A with Neli Tsaneva, Senior Area Manager at Kanso FM
When did you join Kanso FM, and what was your first role?
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Neli:
I joined the company on 1st January 2023. However, I’ve known Norma and Dovile since 2017, as we previously worked together at another company. When Kanso FM was launched, Dovile invited me to join the team as Executive Housekeeper at the Dorsett Hotel.
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What kind of work were you doing day-to-day back then?
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Neli:
I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of housekeeping operations in a hotel. This included team management, quality control, guest satisfaction, inventory and supplies, health and safety compliance, coordination with other departments, budgeting, and special projects. It was a very hands-on role.
When did you start taking on more responsibility?
Neli:
I’ve always looked for opportunities to expand my skills. From the very beginning of my career, I’ve been eager to learn, understand business processes in depth, and grow both personally and professionally. I’m driven to prove my capabilities through hard work, dedication, and delivering results.
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Was there a time you had to step up or lead before your promotion?
Neli:
Yes, before stepping into the role of Area Manager, I had already taken on leadership responsibilities on numerous occasions. I conducted audits in other hotels and supported fellow managers through training and guidance. These experiences helped demonstrate my ability to lead, mentor, and uphold high operational standards.
Did anyone support or mentor you during your journey?
Neli:
Yes, I’ve been fortunate in several ways. I hold a master’s degree in Tourism and Hospitality and a bachelor’s degree in business management, which supported my development. I’ve also been mentored by my Operations Director, Dovile Alijosiute, whose guidance has played a significant role in shaping my leadership approach.
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How did your promotion come about?
Neli:
I was promoted in June 2024. The decision was made by my Operations Director, Dovile, who recognised my potential and performance across various sites.
How did you feel when you got the role?
Neli:
When I was promoted to Area Manager, I felt truly recognised and appreciated. It was meaningful validation that all my hard work, dedication, and continuous effort had paid off. It confirmed that my commitment had not been in vain.​
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​What does it mean to you to be a Senior Area Manager now?
Neli:
Being a Senior Area Manager is both a responsibility and a reward. It means that my years of hard work have been acknowledged. It gives me the chance to influence operations on a larger scale, support and develop multiple teams, and ensure consistency and excellence across all sites. For me, this role is about leading by example, building trust, and helping others grow.
What’s different about the way you lead now?
Neli:
My leadership style is now more strategic, people-focused, and impactful. Earlier in my career, I was very hands-on with daily tasks. Now, I focus on empowering managers, setting clear expectations, and driving performance through communication and support. I’ve learned to step back and see the bigger picture, understanding how every decision affects multiple sites and teams. Leadership for me now isn’t just about doing things right it’s about inspiring others to do things even better.
What are you proud of achieving in this role?
Neli:
I’m proud of the positive impact I’ve had on both people and performance. I’ve helped underperforming sites improve standards, compliance, and team morale. Seeing teams become more engaged, motivated, and consistent in delivering five-star service across all locations is incredibly rewarding.
What have you learned about yourself through this journey?
Neli:
I’ve learned that I’m more adaptable and capable than I ever thought. I naturally lead by example, and people respond well to my calm, solution-focused approach. Most importantly, I’ve discovered that growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone, every challenge I’ve faced has made me stronger, more confident, and more prepared for the next step.
What would you say to someone just starting in a cleaning role at Kanso?
Neli
I would say, Welcome…, you’re joining a team that truly values high standards, teamwork, and growth. Every role here is important. As a cleaner, you are the backbone of the operation. Take pride in your work, be open, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step up. At Kanso, there are always opportunities to grow if you stay committed and show a positive attitude.
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Thank you, Neli, for your candid and inspiring conversation. A true leader in your field. We are sure our readers will take a lot away from it.
