Carolyne Doyon // How Mentorship and Support Systems Fueled My Career Success
Carolyne Doyon
President & CEO, North America and the Caribbean at Club Med
You have moved your career in such a strong trajectory, did you have a mentor and if so, what wisdom did you gather from their mentorship and how did it help your growth?
My career trajectory has been greatly influenced by the guidance and support of talented professionals who generously shared their wisdom and insights with me. Recognizing the significance of stepping out of my comfort zone and seeking advice, I was fortunate to have a great mentorship early on in my life. Through these relationships, I gained invaluable advice that has helped me navigate various challenges to this day.
Given the profound impact mentorship had on shaping my career, I've made it a priority to pay it forward by mentoring young professionals. This dedication to talent development also extends to my work with Club Med, where we prioritize surrounding ourselves with exceptional individuals and investing in their development. I firmly believe that success is a collective effort, and having the right team is essential for achieving our goals. It truly makes me feel empowered to see my team grow and supports my belief in the power of mentorship and talent development.
So many women struggle with balancing raising kids and rising careers. What is your support system like and who is your go-to team to make it all possible?
In navigating this delicate balance, I am privileged to have a strong support system both at work and at home.
In the workplace, I am thrilled to lead and collaborate with a team of highly skilled and dedicated professionals whose expertise and commitment are indispensable in driving our collective success. Simultaneously, I am blessed with unwavering support at home from my husband, teenage son and our beloved dog, Charlie Brown. Their encouragement provides me with the strength and motivation to navigate both my professional and personal endeavors.
I am grateful for the talented and competent team at work and the strong support system at home. My advice to women facing similar challenges is to lean on their networks, trust in their abilities, and persevere with determination. With the right support system and mindset, it's possible to thrive in both areas.
Was there a moment in your career that made you realize; you were on the right track to get to where you want to go?
Reflecting on my journey, there was a significant moment that helped mold my path towards where I am today. As a child, I fondly remember watching 'The Price Is Right' with my mother, captivated by the enticing travel destinations on the show. It ignited a spark within me and a passion for exploration and adventure.
Driven by this passion, I embarked on a career in the travel industry, starting with roles in airlines before transitioning into tour operating and eventually finding my place in hospitality. Each step along the way reaffirmed my belief and sense of purpose, as I pursued my childhood dream of experiencing the wonders of the world firsthand.
I am grateful for the alignment between my childhood dreams and my professional endeavors. It serves as a constant reminder that I am on the right track, guided by my passion for travel.
What advice would you give to young women that are just starting out in their careers?
Embrace every opportunity to learn, grow, and challenge yourself. Trust in your abilities, but also accept that it's okay to let go of perfectionism. Remember that we are all imperfectly perfect, and it's through our imperfections that we learn and grow the most. Stay true to your passions, and never underestimate the power of perseverance. Your journey may have twists and turns, but each step forward is a testament to your strength and determination. Believe in yourself, and the world will follow suit.
What’s your favorite book that made a big positive impact in your life?
I mentioned on the podcast I did a lot of reading that helped me in navigating both motherhood and achieving a work-life balance. My favorite book is The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo – a must read!
Check out the podcast episode here!
About Carolyne Doyon // Carolyne Doyon is a seasoned travel industry executive combining more than 25 years of cross-functional leadership experience in the industry, ranging from airline to tour operating, both retail and wholesale.
Carolyne joined Club Med in April 2008 as a Sales Director for Eastern Canada. In December of that year, she was promoted to Vice President for Club Med in Canada, where she proceeded to perform a remarkable transformation of the Canadian business by doubling its revenue and rebalancing its distribution model.
In October 2014, Carolyne’s responsibilities were extended to the Mexican market, where she oversaw the structuring of a local sales organization to capture an emerging demand for premium all-inclusive travel.
In September 2019, Carolyne was named President and CEO of Club Med North America and the Caribbean where now oversees more than 3,500 employees and leads the sales, operations and development activities for four regional offices and nine resorts.
Throughout her tenure at Club Med, Carolyne has been a key contributor to the success of the North American division and has overseen from its earliest stages the project of Club Med’s very first resort in Canada, Québec Charlevoix, a unique four-season mountain resort that opened in December 2021.
Carolyne grew up and studied in Canada, holds a double degree in social sciences and tourism, and was appointed "Personality of the Year" in the Canadian travel industry in 2009. She now lives in Miami, Florida, where she enjoys an active lifestyle with her husband and their son.
Learn more about Club Med at www.clubmed.us
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