/EIN News/ VERO BEACH, Fla., August 9th, 2009 – What do Oprah Winfrey, J.K. Rowling, Jim Carrey, Chris Gardner and Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants’ newly appointed director of pet relations have in common? They have all beaten the odds with far-fetched rags to riches stories. Oliver, a 17-pound, three-year-old Lhasa Apso, has become the first director of pet relations at Kimpton’s 113-room Vero Beach Hotel & Spa. Once an orphan at a Miami animal shelter and later rescued by the Have a Heart organization, Oliver was recently adopted by the Vero Beach Hotel & Spa’s general manager Marco Scherer, landing him a job at this luxurious oceanfront hotel and one of FORTUNE’S 2009 “100 Best Companies to Work For,” Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants.
“I am extremely grateful to the Have a Heart Association for saving me from my ruff beginnings and to Kimpton for giving me the opportunity to bow-wow pet patrons at the Vero Beach Hotel & Spa,” said Oliver, director of pet relations at Kimpton’s Vero Beach Hotel & Spa.
As the director of pet relations for the AAA Four Diamond hotel, Oliver reports to the general manager, lays-in on executive meetings, and oversees the hotel’s pet perks program. Responsibilities include developing amenities, promotions and packages for four-legged travelers and hand-selecting his favorite treats to surprise furry friends with upon arrival. Oliver enjoys laying in his giraffe bed, having his belly rubbed, playing with his chewy bone, and shaking paws with the hotel guests. He will also co-hosts the hotel’s complimentary wine hour every evening in the lobby from 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
“We had many qualified canine-dates apply for this job through our Facebook page, however, after an exhaustive interview process, we determined Oliver’s friendly spirit and outgoing attitude made him the perfect pet for the position,” said Marco Scherer, general manager at Kimpton’s Vero Beach Hotel & Spa. “We are delighted to welcome Oliver as part of the executive team and top dog representing our hotel’s pet-friendly personality.”
As an employee of Kimpton, Oliver’s compensation package includes free healthcare, unlimited grooming, complimentary dog walks, treats, and a joint office with the General Manager and Director of Sales. Periodic bonuses will include treats and toys throughout the month.
To contact Oliver, guests can e-mail him at oliver@verobeachhotelandspa.com. For more information on the Vero Beach Hotel & Spa, visit www.verobeachhotelandspa.com or call 1-866-602-VERO. Facebook users can additionally check-out Oliver and the hotel on our Fan page on facebook.
