From the beginning, stellar associates have been key to making Terranea feel warm and memorable. Learn more from a few of the Terranea-proud people who make the property so special.
Rosalinda Carillo de Ruiz
Room Attendant, since June 2011
What brought you to Terranea?
I knew that I could grow here, and I wanted to work at a place that would provide me many opportunities. A good friend of mine had worked here and always said how great Terranea treated its associates. Plus, I knew it was one of the best resorts in California and had a great reputation with its guests.
What do you like about the setting?
What’s not to like about the setting? As soon as you step on the property, you’re in paradise. I also love interacting with all of my guests and making them feel at home.
What are some of the special moments you’ve had working here?
I have a regular guest who always asks for me specifically to tend to his room and pets. It feels so good to know that my work is appreciated, and the guest is so nice to the point where I feel like family. That same guest was even kind enough to mail me a Christmas card! I was truly touched.
What’s the best part of your job?
What really stands out to me are the people I work with. Everyone is willing to work as a team, and it makes the workday that much better. I also love working by the beach and feeling the fresh air and ocean breeze. The property is so beautiful!
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Martin Lepe
Engineering Manager, since August 2018
What made you want to work at Terranea?
I was looking for an opportunity where I could grow, and I was drawn to Terranea for its size and, of course, beautiful ocean view.
What’s the best part of your day?
My favorite part of the day is when I get together with my team to coordinate our goals. The kindness and positivity of everyone on property throughout the workday is always special too.
What are some of your favorite wildlife to spot?
I love seeing all of the rabbits hopping around at 6 a.m. and the dolphins in the ocean. I also love the views at our Beach Cove and Pelican Point.
How would you spend your time at Terranea if you were a guest?
I would go to The Spa, and then have breakfast at catalina kitchen and enjoy a nature walk.
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Mary Ambrust
Massage Therapist, since November 2012
What brought you to Terranea?
I wanted to start working right after college. It was supposed to be “just a job,” but the growth I’ve experienced here is what has made me stay. I grew up in the area and knew about Terranea and always heard how it was a great place to work.
What do you love most about the setting?
The view is unmatched. While we are “behind the scenes” most of the day in offices, I can’t think of any other place where you can simply walk outside to see either an amazing sunset or dolphins and whales swimming by.
What’s your favorite part of your workday?
The best part is bonding and creating relationships with the team, not just in my department but across all of Terranea. It’s an incredibly fulfilling experience when so many outlets are able to coordinate together to provide that amazing guest experience. Every associate embodies the exemplary qualities of an outstanding associate: passion, integrity, and a drive to succeed. We all love creating positive experiences for our guests.
What’s your favorite spot to take in the views?
My favorite spot for an amazing sunset is either at The Spa or Nelson’s. Since the entire resort is on a peninsula, those are the best places during the evening. How-ever, the view during a Sunday brunch at mar’sel is stunning as well.
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Jeffrey Breedlove
Server, mar’sel, since September 2010
What brought you to Terranea?
I was visiting a friend in Redondo Beach and took the scenic route. I remember passing this amazing 102-acre property and thinking to myself, “Wow, what’s down there?” So, I drove to see what this place was, and it was a beautiful, brand-new resort. I thought to myself, I must work here. The next day I decided to drive back and have lunch by myself. I had lunch at catalina kitchen and asked how to go about getting a serving position. The associate gave me a business card, and that night I went home and filled out the application online. I set up that interview right away because I knew I wanted this position so badly.
What’s the best part of your workday?
When I’m setting up right before anyone gets to mar’sel, and I look to the ocean and see dolphins, sea lions, whales, and pelicans playing. I just take it all in and say to myself, “Wow, this is my office.”
What are some of your favorite moments you’ve spent with guests?
My favorite was helping a frequent guest surprise her mom and dad with the news of her and her husband becoming parents. She emailed me earlier in the week to see what we could come up with. I met with our pastry chef and came up with the idea of putting “Congratulations! You’re about to be grandparents!” on their dessert plate. I filmed the reaction of her parents when the dessert was dropped. It was amazing —her mom and dad burst into tears of happiness. It’s moments like those that I really cherish with my guests.
What is your favorite part of the property?
I love the hike up to the hill that overlooks the lighthouse. Go there during the sunset—you won’t regret it. My favorite spot at Terranea is on the lawn at mar’sel, where the pictures turn out beautifully with the backdrop of the cliffs and the ocean.
