So if you’ve ever wondered what it would feel like to leave the comforts of your own home and live and work somewhere new, meet Elise Wims, a classically-trained chef and fitness enthusiast.
BlackEnterprise.com caught up with Wims, who was hired by Gibbons Life to manage the concierge operations and activities for the rich and famous in the posh Canadian ski town of Whistler, British Columbia.
BlackEnterprise.com: How did you hear about the Apres Ski casting opportunity?
Wims:Â I heard about the job for Gibbons Life while searching the web. I was looking for an opportunity to expand my horizons beyond the food industry.
Why did you decide to leave the culinary world? Was there a defining moment?
I’ve never left the culinary world. Once a chef, always a chef. I just chose to take a break from it for this Gibbons Life opportunity, since it is a once-in-a-lifetime and seasonal business.
Typically, a person doesn’t grow up thinking they want to be an operations manager, so what attracted you to this role and opportunity?
I am a born leader. Some people are just born to follow, but not me. I can remember always being in leadership roles and I’m always promoted to leadership roles. I am a trendsetter and a go-getter. I’ve always challenged authority, because I am the authority.
What should viewers expect from the upcoming show?
They should expect to see some pretty amazing excursions and how far the financially privileged will push us at Gibbons Life to come up with extravagant and unique events. You’ll also see what happens when you bring a bunch of strangers together with different backgrounds and personalities.
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced since being on the show? How did you overcome this challenge?
I would say being a fish out of water. Having zero Whistler connections or experience while managing a crew of people familiar with everything Whistler.
What advantage do you think you have over the other personalities on the show?
That I stayed true to myself. I didn’t succumb to peer pressure to become who they wanted me to be in order to be accepted.
During the trailer for the show, you talked about leaving your son behind to pursue this great opportunity. How did you prepare your son for your travels? Do you have any tips or advice for other parents on how to manage your family while traveling for work?
I just explained to him, in terms he could understand, where I was going, what I was going to be doing and why. My only advice is to prepare them and talk to your child. They understand more than you think
What advice or tips would you give someone who wants to transition from one career to another?
I’d say it’s okay to cast your net far and wide. You should seek to become multitalented.
Do you have a passion for travel? If so, what are your top 2 destinations and recommended activities?
I love to travel. I adore the West coast. In Los Angeles, go to the Staples Center for a basketball game and ride a bike down Venice Beach. In Las Vegas, lay poolside all day.