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Michaela McDonald - General Manager at Far Grange
A passion for personal development

I joined Haven in July 2011 after graduating from University. My first park was Hafan y Môr, where I joined the Holiday Experience team. I then went on to support the Lettings team, became Assistant Holiday Experience Manager, and completed the Management Development Programme in 2013.

My first role as a leader was covering maternity leave as Holiday Experience Manager at Hafan y Môr. This was an incredible experience that really made me reflect on my style of leadership. From there I became Holiday Experience Manager at Allhallows in 2015, Combe Haven in 2016 and Experience Manager at Allhallows from 2017 to mid 2019; then I moved on to become Head of Experience at Primrose Valley. I’m now the General Manager at Far Grange park, after completing the ‘Getting Ready to Grow to General Manager’ and the ‘Grow to’ General Manager/Senior Leader programmes.

I’ve worked hard to become a highly effective leader, defining my own leadership style. Throughout this journey, my passion for striving to be better has grown; I’m committed to my team, making sure they are coached and nurtured to deliver a great experience, whilst doing the right thing by the business. From the very beginning, Haven has given me endless opportunities to further develop myself and my career, and I’ve been supported by great inspirational leaders and key people at all levels. 

Plus, I’ve enjoyed a huge variety of experiences with Haven that have contributed to my personal and professional development.

My advice is never to be afraid to ask for feedback and to act on it; alongside self-reflection this is the key in developing personal growth. Finally, if in doubt be authentic, over anything else.