Kerry Hobbs

Recognized for her caring approach in business, Kerry Hobbs said her recent awards serve as inspiration to keep moving forward.

Born and raised in England, Kerry Hobbs first worked as a nurse and midwife for a number of years before her interests drifted toward roles in sales, marketing and management. In 2007 she made a move to Canada—straight to Castlegar—where she got involved in the hotel industry.

Hobbs, 37, is now the manager of the Fireside Inn and Conference Centre in Castlegar and was voted Business Person of the Year for 2011 by the Castlegar and District Chamber of Commerce. The Fireside Inn also received the award for Business of the Year.

“I love the balance between business and lifestyle,” Hobbs said of life in the Kootenays. “The scenery on the drive to and from work is like being on a holiday every day. The relatively unsaturated market here (compared to England) means there is tremendous opportunity in the Kootenays.”

Hobbs said she enjoys the hotel industry because of the new challenges each day brings, as well as the opportunities it allows to support the community. When asked about her recent awards, Hobbs said she was pleased with the honour.

“I was delighted to receive the awards. It’s always nice when your efforts are acknowledged,” Hobbs said. “It’s my aim to always go the extra mile and I am proud to have a team that is willing to go there with me. These awards are a testament to the results we are achieving and serve as inspiration to keep moving forward.”