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V O L . X X X I I N O. X V I I A U G U S T 1 0 , 2 0 2 6 26 pandemic and with the issues over worker visas. How have you maintained a steady workforce? Tina Hewett-Gordon: e Nonantum is a family-owned, employee-cen- tric business, and we have worked diligently to build a company culture of acceptance and inclusion. We purposefully hire all demographics. We are often a young person's first employer and we employ many retir- ees who are enjoying a second act in their professional lives. In 2021 we launched our Raising People Up initiative. We began by hir- ing people who were recently released from incarceration and have grown to intentionally hiring people in recov- ery, new Americans, people with dis- abilities, and women residing in the Southern Maine Women's Reentry Center, who are reacclimating to life outside of incarceration. We are a designated Recovery Friendly Workplace. Raising People Up reflects our belief that hospitality is about caring for people, not just serving guests. We have found that people want to work for a company that serves them as much as they serve it. We have an incredibly high percent- age of employees who return year after year and typically only need to hire approximately 40 people annually. MB: Vacationland is a very popular visitor destination. What are you doing to help the Nonantum stand out among the competition? THG: e Nonantum stands out because of our unwavering commitment to genuine hospitality. In a time when exceptional service is becoming increas- ingly rare, we continue to invest in our team, our property and our community, and our guests feel that difference. MB: How would you describe your leadership style? THG: I'm approachable and rooted in leading by example. I believe in mod- eling behaviors and work ethic that we expect from our team and would never ask someone to do something I wouldn't be willing to do myself. I strive to create an environment built on mutual respect, teamwork and accountability. MB: What would you say is the most challenging part of your job? What part is the most fun or rewarding? THG: e most challenging part of my job is managing growth. e Nonantum and its business, along with guests' expectations, have grown expo- nentially over the years. What I enjoy most is the people — both our team and our guests. I love watching our team provide genu- ine hospitality and seeing return- ing guests become a part of our extended family. It's a privilege to watch families grow over the years and to know we've helped create the memories and traditions that keep them coming back. Tina Fischer, Mainebiz staff writer, can be reached at tfischer @ mainebiz.biz More than a Trustee. A partner for generations. Wealth isn't just about financial returns. It's about responsibility. Responsibility to family. To future generations. And to the intentions behind the wealth you've built over a lifetime. At Norway Savings Asset Management Group, we're more than financial advisors. As a trustee, we are entrusted to carry out your wishes and manage your assets according to the plan you've created—always acting in the best interest of those who come next. Because protecting your legacy requires more than strategy. It requires partnership. No conflicts. Just commitment. For the life you choose. Connect with us! 207.482.7920 | norwaysavings.bank/amg N ot F DIC I n su red • N o B a n k G ua ra ntee • M ay Lose Va lue The Nonantum Resort 95 Ocean Ave., Kennebunkport What it does: Seasonal 109-room waterfront resort, open from early May through mid-December. Founded: 1883 Employees: 200 during high season, 30 off-season www.nonantumresort.com Hospitality is about caring for people, not just serving guests. We have found that people want to work for a company that serves them as much as they serve it. » C O N T I N U E D F RO M PA G E 2 4

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