They say that "a good day starts in the morning," and for guests at UNA Hotels Expo Fiera Milano, this isn't just a cliché — it’s a daily reality. Behind the care of a dining room ready to welcome those waking up far from home, lies the dedication of someone who coordinates the sweetest moment of the day. We are talking about Alessandra Falletta, Breakfast Manager at our hotel located on the outskirts of Milan.
Let’s get to know the new protagonist of the “UNA è femminile” column more closely, to discover how her passion for hospitality and her sensitivity make a difference every morning.
Welcome Alessandra, what is your current role at UNA Italian Hospitality? What are your duties?
I am the Breakfast Manager at UNA Hotel Expo Fiera Milano. I handle the organization and coordination of the breakfast service, ensuring a warm welcome for guests from the early hours of the morning. If I had to explain it to a child, I’d tell them that I prepare a special breakfast for everyone, full of colorful sweets, and I say good morning to every person who enters the room with a smile.
What is the best part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my work is seeing the guests' smiles right after they wake up. Contributing to making the start of their day more pleasant is my greatest satisfaction. Creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere is one of the main goals of my role, and it’s what I love the most.
And the most complicated part?
Managing people is the biggest challenge. Every morning, you have to motivate all team members, maintaining balance and managing internal dynamics. The real challenge is bringing out the potential of all the people who work with me, inspiring trust and helping them develop their skills. In our department, we are almost all women, and this requires a particular sensitivity in managing relationships and promoting a collaborative environment.
Outside of work, do you have any particular hobbies or passions?
In my free time, I like working with resin to create costume jewelry, although the time I can dedicate to this passion is limited.
If you could describe yourself with three adjectives, what would they be?
I consider myself a passionate, determined, and authentic person. I put effort and passion into everything I do, I face challenges with determination, and I like to always stay true to my values and who I really am.
If you could describe your company with three adjectives, what would they be?
I would define my company, instead, as dynamic, demanding, and rewarding. It is an environment that requires constant commitment but, at the same time, offers great opportunities for growth. Those who join this reality often choose to stay for a long time precisely because of its ability to stimulate and value everyone's skills.
What advice would you give to a young woman approaching the hospitality sector for the first time?
My advice is to face every day with a smile and with professionalism. It is important to always be kind and have an open mind, as hospitality requires empathy and a good dose of flexibility. You shouldn't be afraid to get involved, and you must remember that often what you feel personally, others feel too: the important thing is to maintain confidence in yourself and face every situation with serenity.
In the working world, have you ever had to face prejudices related to being a woman?
Yes, especially at the beginning of my career, when I didn't yet have full awareness of my abilities. Today, thanks to experience, I can manage these situations better, although I must admit that some difficulties still exist, especially in contexts where gender prejudices are hard to overcome. I believe, however, that awareness and determination are fundamental to facing these challenges.
To achieve gender equality in Italy, there is still a long way to go. In your opinion, what measures could be adopted by companies to guarantee gender equality or to meet the needs and requirements of professional women?
I believe that to reach real equality, more incisive and concrete measures are needed. Companies must offer the same growth opportunities to everyone, guaranteeing equal pay, promoting women in leadership positions, and protecting motherhood. But change must also start with us women: sometimes we are the first to limit our ambitions because we grew up in a world that gave certain responsibilities only to men. Women must believe more in their own abilities, while companies must create an environment where it is normal for men and women to share family responsibilities equally.