For Muhammad Awad, joining HBL is the beginning of a career journey built on his passion for creating memorable guest experiences. In June 2024, Muhammad started as a Games Operator at Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida, where his day-to-day responsibilities included operating the games, explaining rules, meeting sales targets and ensuring a fun and energetic atmosphere.
His commitment and work ethic soon led to a promotion to Games Supervisor. Stepping into a leadership position saw Muhammad taking on greater responsibilities in running the games operations. He also became a key point of contact for other Games Operators, helping to guide the team, maintain high standards and assist with any guest concerns. Less than a year later, he took another step forward in his career by becoming Assistant Manager. This new role expanded his focus to include the wider strategic aspects of the business. Today, he supports scheduling and staffing, monitors team performance, ensures operational targets are achieved, and works closely with management to improve operations and resolve issues.
While Muhammad Awad’s responsibilities have changed significantly over time, one thing has remained the same: his enjoyment of working with both guests and team members. “What I love most about my job is interacting with guests, developing team members and keeping them motivated, and creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. I also really enjoy leading teams and planning operations. Seeing both the team and the business succeed makes the role rewarding,” he says.
His achievements have not gone unnoticed. Tamara Manojlovic, the Innovation & Design Assistant – USA, has seen first-hand the impact he has made.
“Muhammad has consistently delivered exceptional results at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and his outstanding work ethic and performance earned him the opportunity to support operations at Busch Gardens Williamsburg as well, where he again showed incredible focus and determination. What sets Muhammad apart is his passion for the role and the business. That passion continues to grow as he progresses in his career and its impact extends far beyond his own performance. His enthusiasm, commitment and positive attitude are contagious, inspiring his team to perform at their best and enjoy their work as much as possible.”
Throughout his progression in HBL, Muhammad has gained confidence in managing the fast-paced nature of the attractions industry. Each new role has presented different challenges, requiring him to adapt quickly, stay organised and make effective decisions under pressure. He credits clear communication and teamwork as the most important factors in overcoming such challenges.
Muhammad is now aiming to further strengthen his leadership abilities and take on even greater operational responsibilities in the near future. “I aim to keep progressing within HBL and contribute to the overall success of the business,” he explains.
With three roles in less than two years, Muhammad Awad’s story highlights the opportunities available to those who take on new challenges and consistently strive to grow both personally and professionally.
