We believe in creating experiences that leave a lasting impact. As an Account Manager, Milja Emilia Takala plays a key role in ensuring that our clients and DayMakers feel supported, valued, and inspired every day. From her hospitality roots in Switzerland to her journey through corporate guest services, Milja’s story is one of growth, passion, and taking bold steps towards new opportunities.

A journey of discovery

Milja’s career began in hospitality and business management, where she studied in Switzerland before moving to London’s hotel scene. It was in these roles that she first discovered her passion for guest services.

“Hospitality, especially front-of-house in a hotel, teaches you so many valuable skills,” Milja explains. “I think everyone should work in hospitality at some point, it gives you resilience, adaptability and a real understanding of people.”

After years in luxury hospitality, she transitioned into corporate guest services, working in operations for over seven years at a competitor company. While she thrived in the role, she eventually found herself craving something new, a fresh challenge that would reignite her passion for the industry.

Finding the perfect fit at On Verve

When Milja realised her career progression had stalled, she knew it was time to explore new opportunities. She wanted a role that felt both new and exciting yet still familiar. That’s when she came across an opening at On Verve.

“I saw an ad for an Account Manager role at On Verve, and I was instantly drawn to the company’s culture and vibrant energy,” she says. “That was what stood out first, the extras were just a bonus!”

From the moment she joined, she knew she had made the right choice. For her On Verve wasn’t just another company; it was a forward-thinking, people-focused team that valued creativity, collaboration, and innovation.

“On Verve is incredibly friendly and forward-thinking. I felt that from day one, and I still feel it now,” Milja shares. “It’s an exciting time to be part of this journey because I know On Verve has so much more to give.”

Lessons learned and advice for the future

With experience spanning luxury hospitality, operations, and corporate guest services, Milja has gathered a wealth of knowledge that now shapes her leadership style. She credits her background in hotel front-of-house roles for instilling in her the importance of attention to detail, adaptability, and creating meaningful experiences for clients and guests.

Her biggest lesson? Embrace creativity and trust the process. Over the years, she’s learned that overthinking can be limiting and that sometimes the best solutions come from thinking outside the box and having fun along the way.

“For anyone considering a career in guest services, remember this: your skills are more transferable than you think,” she advises. “Problem-solving, communication, and the ability to create great experiences, these are talents that can take you anywhere.”

A celebration of strength and community

For Milja, International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength and impact of women in all aspects of life.

“Women are incredible,” she says. “We take on so much, and no matter how tough a day gets, we show up and give our best. The sense of community among women is powerful, those relationships are what truly help us navigate life.”

She considers herself fortunate to have had strong female mentors throughout her career and managers who led by example and inspired her to push beyond her comfort zone.

“I’ve been incredibly lucky to have had so many driven and inspiring women as my managers. Even now, I still lean on some of them for advice, and they continue to shape my career.”

A future filled with possibility

Milja’s journey is proof that embracing change, taking risks and surrounding yourself with strong mentors can open doors to exciting opportunities. With her leadership, enthusiasm, and belief in the power of community, she continues to elevate guest services and inspire those around her. And as for what’s next? The possibilities are endless and she’s ready for all of it.