In this photo: Randy Schroeder, Frandsen Bank & Trust; Bobbi Fuhr, Best Western Plus; Nicole Angelo, Alliance Bank; Patricia Brusven, Schell’s Brewery

The Willkommen Committee of the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce recently visited the Best Western Plus to welcome their new General Manager, Bobbi Fuhr!

Bobbi stepped into the role in February and brings decades of hospitality and management experience to the position. She previously spent 26 years with Perkins — many of those in management — before working for three years in Human Resources at Martin Luther College. A lifelong New Ulm resident, Bobbi shared that the transition to hotel management has been both enjoyable and rewarding.

Bobbi describes the work of running a busy property as “putting out fires all day,” but in a way she genuinely loves. The Best Western Plus is a well-known staple in the community, and she appreciates the variety and pace of the job. One of the biggest differences from the restaurant world is the level o/f training required; hotel operations involve safety, privacy, and complex computer systems, so staff go through about a month of training, compared to a week or two in food service. Staffing remains a challenge — as it is everywhere — and the shift from a large team at Perkins to a smaller staff of about 36 employees has been an adjustment.

Bobbi also spoke about the seasonality of hotel operations. The property typically slows down in December and reaches its quietest point in January, though this November has been unusually strong, contributing to what has been a record year for occupancy. The team uses January to complete repairs and maintenance in preparation for the busy months ahead while working to maintain hours for their staff.

Located at 2101 S Broadway, if you’re interested in learning more, visit their website or call (507) 359-2941.

Congratulations, Bobbi Fuhr!