YOUnique: Tencia Lebert

It’s a refreshing atmosphere at itel. I love how approachable & collaborative everyone is.

Tencia Lebert, itel's Group Cost Controller

Behind every great company are people who make sure things run smoothly. Few understand that better than Tencia Lebert, our new Group Cost Controller based in Montego Bay. With a BSc in Hotel and Tourism Management, an MBA in General Management, and over two decades in hospitality finance, Tencia is no stranger to complex budgets and big responsibilities. Her lifelong passion for numbers, teamwork, and analytical precision makes her a valuable addition to the itel team. Let’s get to know her a little better… 

Tell us a bit about your background. Have you always worked in Business Process Outsourcing or Customer Experience? 
 

This is actually my first time working in the BPO industry, but I’ve always been customer service oriented. My background is in hospitality and tourism, and I’ve worked in finance for various hotels for the past 23 years, including 15 years at Sandals Resorts. 

How would you describe yourself in three words? 
 

I’d say I’m a team player, meticulous, and deadline oriented. When I’m leading teams, I’m very hands-on, because I’ve worked my way up from the bottom, so I like to lead by example. I pay attention to detail, always try to meet deadlines, and I have a very open, approachable style. 

When did you join itel? What drew you to the company? 

 
Actually, I heard about itel long before joining, just from living in Montego Bay and through my Sandals Resort network – it’s almost impossible not to know Yoni (itel’s Founding Chairman & CEO), who built his early career with Sandals. And though I’ve just started at itel, I’m very excited to learn more about the organization.  

Is there something you really like about the itel culture? 
 

Though I’m new to the company, I have to say that the friendly, approachable atmosphere is refreshing, compared to the very structured nature of hospitality finance. I really like itel’s family-oriented culture and team spirit, it’s so collaborative. 

That’s great to hear and we’re glad to have you on board. Now, some of our readers may not know what a Group Cost Controller does. Can you explain what you do in your daily role?  

My responsibility is to manage and analyze costs across the entire organization, to ensure that we meet budget, optimize financial performance, and look for ways to improve efficiency. A lot of that involves reviewing cost projections, performing data analyses, and preparing reports, but it’s really about finding that balance between operational needs and financial sustainability. 

What makes you the perfect fit for this kind of position? Is there a special energy you bring to the table? 
 

I genuinely love numbers! Which is important, because this role requires strong analytical skills. I also bring years of experience as a cost controller. I’m known for being no-nonsense when it comes to managing costs, but I always work collaboratively with department heads to make sure budgets are realistic. 

What do you enjoy most about this kind of role? What is the most exciting part about being a Cost Controller? 

 
I enjoy the challenge that each new budget forecast brings, but even more than that, I love the people side of it. I love helping others understand and feel comfortable with numbers. Many people in customer-facing roles are great at service but shy away from finance. I like breaking it down for them, showing them that managing a departmental budget is really just like managing your household finances. When that lightbulb moment clicks for them, it’s very rewarding. 

On the other side, what is the most challenging task you’ve had to overcome? 
 

Sometimes people can be defensive when it comes to financial discussions, especially around budgets. The key is communication, helping people understand that we’re all working toward the same goal: the success of the company.  

Clearly, your role comes with many responsibilities. How do you keep yourself motivated? 
 

I have to say that my children are my main motivation. I always tell them, ‘Try to be better each day, to be the best version of yourself.’ I also apply that same mindset at work. I set daily or weekly goals, and it’s satisfying to check things off that list, to see the results.  

That’s amazing advice, something we can all follow. But what about life outside of work. What do you enjoy most about living in Montego Bay? 
 

I’m originally from Kingston, but my work took me to several islands, including the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos. My last assignment brought me to Montego Bay, where I’ve built my home and family. What I love most here is the balance. It’s not all go-go-go. It’s more relaxed. You can visit the beach on weekends, enjoy the resort lifestyle, and people are incredibly friendly. 

Are there any pastimes you enjoy, any hobbies? 
 

My downtime mostly revolves around my kids – taking them to dance class, swimming, gymnastics. I think it’s important to give them that focus and attention. When I do have quiet time, I love gardening, especially growing orchids. I also enjoy cooking and listening to music. Mostly 70s disco, R&B, and gospel. 

Tell us a fun fact about yourself. 
 

Most people don’t know this, but I’m a really good cook! My specialty is curried goat, even though I don’t eat it. I know that seems strange, that I don’t like it myself, but everyone says that my curried goat is delicious, so I must be doing something right.  

Thank you, Tencia, for sitting down with us today. You may be new to itel, but your passion for people, precision, and progress already shines through. Whether you’re balancing budgets or nurturing orchids, we know you’ll approach everything with care and dedication, a true reflection of the itel spirit. Welcome to the itel family!