Alumni Video Series: Meet
Katie Obst

Katie Obst had always been surrounded by tourism and hospitality. Her parents owned a successful tourism business, meaning her childhood was filled with tales of adventure and the joy of making people’s journeys memorable. Little did she know this early exposure would shape her own destiny. After completing high school, Katie was eager to embark on her own path in the world of hospitality, which led her to Le Cordon Bleu’s Adelaide campus.

She pursued a Bachelor of Business, recognising this strong foundation would serve her well in the dynamic industry she aspired to join.

“I chose to study at Le Cordon Bleu due to its prominent international reputation,” Katie says.

“I thought it was important when working in an industry that has a presence all over the world, to gain an education that would allow me to travel as well.”

In 2008, Katie graduated and found herself jumping straight into a range of roles, from housekeeping and food and beverage, to front office and reservations.

From there, she continued to show commitment and dedication which led her to high-level leadership positions.

Today, Katie is the general manager at new boutique hotel, Vibe Adelaide.

Although every day is different, her passion for team development and seeing staff achieve their goals is her favourite part of the job.

“It’s extremely important that my team enjoys coming into work each day, as that organically flows into the customer experience,” she says.

She often reflects on her time at Le Cordon Bleu and still uses the knowledge passed down to her from lecturers.

“The topics provide a range of learning opportunities for students to use throughout the lifecycle of their career,” Katie says.

“I still refer back to subjects such as Accounting Practices now, even as a general manager.”

Her advice for those looking to enter the hospitality industry through Le Cordon Bleu is simple.

“Do it, you won’t regret it, and in the end you will have a degree that will give you skills you can use all over the world, and throughout all of your career.”

Explore Le Cordon Bleu Adelaide's Bachelor of Business degrees