Employees Only

In the years since Victor Tommarchi retired from the banking business, his passion moved from helping people solve their banking needs, to helping people solve all their needs.

As the first lobby ambassador for the Ritz-Carlton, Naples, Tommarchi is the first person guests meet when they enter the hotel, and the go-to man for requests, assistance and advice on everything from travel worries to restaurant recommendations.

By night, Tommarchi serves as bandleader for the '30s-style five-piece Night Train Band, which plays at country clubs around Naples. While seeking a venue for their next show, Tommarchi was approached by the Ritz-Carlton to fill a concierge position. "I was kind of convinced to take [the position]," he says.

Tommarchi has since fallen in love with the job, as the people he greets and assists are generally friendly and appreciative of his services. With the grand lobby as his office, Tommarchi is responsible for making things run smoothly: watching unattended luggage, helping flustered guests and keeping the flow of the Ritz-Carlton on track. "I am going to make sure that when you're here, you're happy," he says. "No business is based on brick and mortar-it's based on its people. This is a no-stress gig, but you have to be extremely perceptive."

Tommarchi says his favorite guests are the "red-hat ladies." He charms them with personal service and hotel tours. "I once had a lady tell me, 'I've never had a job, but if I ever did have a job, I would want to do what you do, Victor.'"

-Rebecca Loveridge