Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands: After 24 years of dedicated service to Beaches Turks and Caicos resort, veteran steward supervisor for more than 20 years, Samuel Maxwell Knowles has traded in his tools for retirement.

Having joined the organization in October of 1998, Samuel, who relocated with his family from the Bahamas to Providenciales, began his career in hospitality in the staff cafeteria as a chef.

At his retirement party held in one of the conference rooms at the resort, Samuel was showered with accolades for his leadership and commitment to his family. One common thread in all the congratulatory remarks was his unwavering belief in training and mentorship.

Stewarding Manager Carlton Biggs shared, “Samuel helped to transform the department into one of the leading areas for training on the resort. Throughout his tenure as a leader, he consistently motivated his team to complete courses offered by the Sandals Corporate University (SCU). We are more equipped now as a team because of what Samuel has done.”

Managing Director James McAnally noted, “Working with Samuel over the years, I have always appreciated how calm and composed he is amidst the many challenges. He has always been the voice of reason for his team. One of his greatest strengths is working with the SCU to guide them into acquiring training and certification in their respective fields.”

“I have had many opportunities to interact with Mr. Knowles, and one of my most appreciative periods is the way he took ownership of his respective areas and had genuine care for a job well done. Also, whenever we would speak, we would always talk about family, and often he would share a good word of faith. He had great respect from those he led as well as his peers. He will certainly be missed, and I’m happy that he will be spending some well-deserved time with his family,” McAnally shared.

While this veteran leader was showered with accolades through the many presentations, Samuel sat wearing a broad smile next to his wife of 38 years, Judymae Knowles, shared how satisfied he was with what he had heard. “I am satisfied with the influence that I have been able to create during my time here. Being able to experience this level of growth professionally has shown others that once you can dream it and you have an organization that believes in you and your development, nothing is impossible. I have the utmost respect for the leaders that I have worked with who have helped me to be the best professional that I could be.”

“Being a firm believer in continuous learning, Samuel noted the value of consistently seeking career growth. “When I first thought about becoming a leader within this industry, I prioritized completing the different courses that the SCU offered for the team. Courses like Supervisory Management, Train The Trainer, Leadership, and Hospitality Trainer were a few of my favorites.”

Judymae Knowles, while reflecting on her husband’s career, shared, “For 24 years, I have been married to the team at Beaches Turks and Caicos. They have been my family since the moment my husband joined, and this is something I am thankful for.”