Crowne Plaza Kochi

19 Job openings at Crowne Plaza Kochi
Chef De Partie -Continental Cuisine Kochi,Kerala,India 3 - 4 years Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company DescriptionCrowne Plaza Kochi is strategically located on the NH 47 Bypass, providing easy access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters, and southern beaches. With 269 spacious business rooms and suites offering panoramic views of the backwaters and the city, Crowne Plaza Kochi is the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events. The hotel features a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 people, all set within a tranquil waterfront setting. Role DescriptionThis is a full-time, on-site role located in Ernakulam for a Chef De Partie specializing in Continental cuisine. The Chef De Partie will be responsible for preparing and presenting dishes, maintaining high standards of food hygiene, and working closely with the Sous Chef and Head Chef. Other duties include managing stock, training junior kitchen staff, and ensuring timely and efficient service during dining hours. QualificationsProficiency in Continental cuisine preparation and presentationExcellent knowledge of food hygiene and safety standardsExperience in inventory management and stock controlStrong team collaboration and training skillsAbility to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasksMinimum of 3-4 years of experience in a similar roleCulinary degree or equivalent professional qualification

Front office Manager -Crowne Plaza Kochi Kochi,Kerala,India 0 years Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Job description Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is located on the NH 47 Bypass, offering convenient access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, and scenic backwaters and beaches. The hotel features 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Backwaters and the City. Guests can enjoy a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 attendees. Situated in a tranquil waterfront setting, Crowne Plaza Kochi is the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events. Role Description This is a full-time on-site role for a Front Office Manager located in Ernakulam. The Front Office Manager will be responsible for overseeing daily front desk operations, ensuring excellent customer service and satisfaction. This includes managing front office staff, handling guest inquiries, and coordinating with other departments to ensure smooth operations. The role also involves administrative tasks such as scheduling, reporting, and maintaining records. Qualifications Proficiency in Opera Software Candidates must have a minimum of 1 year experience as a Front Office Manager in a reputed 5-star hotel with an inventory of 200+ rooms." Strong Customer Satisfaction and Customer Service skills Experience in managing Front Office operations Excellent Communication skills, both written and verbal Leadership and team management skills Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field Show more Show less

Kitchen Executive -Pan Asian Kochi,Kerala,India 0 years Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is strategically located on the NH 47 Bypass, providing easy access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters, and southern beaches. With 269 spacious business rooms and suites offering panoramic views of the backwaters and the city, Crowne Plaza Kochi is the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events. The hotel features a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 people, all set within a tranquil waterfront setting. Role Description This is a full-time, on-site role located in Ernakulam for a Kitchen Executive specializing in Pan Asian. The Kitchen Executive will be responsible for preparing and presenting dishes, maintaining high standards of food hygiene, and working closely with the Sous Chef and Head Chef. Other duties include managing stock, training junior kitchen staff, and ensuring timely and efficient service during dining hours. Qualifications Proficiency in Pan Asian preparation and presentation Excellent knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards Experience in inventory management and stock control Strong team collaboration and training skills Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks Minimum of 3-4 years of experience in a similar role Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification Show more Show less

Duty Manager -Crowne Plaza Kochi Kochi,Kerala,India 4 years Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Job description Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is located on the NH 47 Bypass, offering convenient access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, and scenic backwaters and beaches. The hotel features 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Backwaters and the City. Guests can enjoy a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 attendees. Situated in a tranquil waterfront setting, Crowne Plaza Kochi is the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events. Role Description This is a full-time on-site role for a Duty Manager located in Ernakulam. The Duty Manager will be responsible for overseeing daily front desk operations, ensuring excellent customer service and satisfaction. This includes managing front office staff, handling guest inquiries, and coordinating with other departments to ensure smooth operations. The role also involves administrative tasks such as scheduling, reporting, and maintaining records. Qualifications Proficiency in Opera Software Candidates must have a minimum of 4-5 Years in a reputed 5-star hotel with an inventory of 200+ rooms." Strong Customer Satisfaction and Customer Service skills Experience in managing Front Office operations Excellent Communication skills, both written and verbal Leadership and team management skills Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field Show more Show less

Duty Manager Kerala,India 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is conveniently located on the NH 47 Bypass, providing easy access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters, and beaches. The hotel features 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the backwaters and the city. With a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 guests, Crowne Plaza Kochi is a preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events. Role Description This is a full-time, on-site role based in Kerala, India for a Duty Manager. The Duty Manager will oversee daily operations of the hotel, ensuring guest satisfaction and smooth workflow. Responsibilities include managing staff, addressing guest concerns and complaints, coordinating with different departments, and overseeing safety and security measures. The Duty Manager will also ensure that hotel policies and procedures are followed and will assist in maintaining high standards of service and hospitality. Qualifications Strong leadership and team management skills Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills Experience in hospitality management and hotel operations Problem-solving and conflict resolution skills Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays Proficiency in using hotel management software and other related technology Fluency in English; additional languages are an advantage Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or a related field

Duty Manager Ernakulam,Kerala,India 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is ideally located on the NH 47 Bypass, offering easy access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters, and beaches. The hotel features 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the backwaters and city. With a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900, Crowne Plaza Kochi is the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events. Role Description This is a full-time, on-site role located in Ernakulam for a Duty Manager. The Duty Manager will oversee daily operations, ensure guest satisfaction, manage staff performance, handle customer inquiries and complaints, and coordinate with various departments to maintain high service standards. The Duty Manager will also assist in training and development of staff, oversee safety and security procedures, and ensure compliance with company policies. Qualifications Strong leadership and team management skills Excellent customer service and communication skills Ability to handle complaints and resolve conflicts efficiently Experience in hospitality management and operations Knowledge of safety and security procedures Proficiency in Microsoft Office and hotel management software Relevant educational background in Hospitality Management or related field Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays Previous experience in a similar role within a luxury hotel is a plus

Duty Manager India 0 years INR 4.44 - 5.04 Lacs P.A. On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is ideally located on the NH 47 Bypass, offering easy access to the airport, Central Business District (CBD), Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters, and beaches. The hotel features 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the backwaters and the city. We offer a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 guests, all within a tranquil waterfront setting. This makes Crowne Plaza Kochi the preferred International brand for Business, Leisure, and Events. Role Description This is a full-time on-site role for a Duty Manager, located in Kerala, India. The Duty Manager will be responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing staff, ensuring guest satisfaction, handling guest inquiries and complaints, coordinating with different departments, and enforcing hotel policies. The Duty Manager will also ensure the safety and security of guests and employees, maintain operational efficiency, and support the management team in achieving business goals. Qualifications Proven experience in hotel operations management Strong leadership and team management skills Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills Problem-solving and conflict resolution skills Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays Proficiency in hotel management software Relevant educational background in Hospitality Management or a related field Advanced Knowledge in Opera Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Pay: ₹37,000.00 - ₹42,000.00 per month Benefits: Commuter assistance Food provided Health insurance Life insurance Provident Fund Schedule: Rotational shift Supplemental Pay: Yearly bonus Work Location: In person

Chef De Partie Kerala,India 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is ideally located on the NH 47 Bypass with easy access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, and scenic backwaters and beaches to the south. The hotel offers 269 spacious rooms and suites with panoramic views of the backwaters and the city. Our variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 guests make Crowne Plaza Kochi the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events. Role Description This is a full-time on-site role for a Chef De Partie, Pan Asian located in Kerala, India. The Chef De Partie will be responsible for overseeing a specific section of the kitchen, preparing and presenting dishes, and ensuring high standards of food quality and hygiene. Daily tasks include menu planning, inventory management, training junior staff, and coordinating with other kitchen sections to ensure timely service. The role requires maintaining a clean and organized workstation and adhering to health and safety guidelines. Qualifications Culinary skills, including menu planning, food preparation, and presentation- Pan Asian Inventory management and procurement skills Experience in training and supervising junior kitchen staff Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards Strong communication and teamwork abilities Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage time efficiently Previous experience in a similar role within a high-end hotel or restaurant Culinary arts degree or relevant certification is preferred

Electrician ernakulam,kerala,india 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is ideally located on the NH 47 Bypass offering easy access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters and beaches. The hotel boasts 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Backwaters and the City. With a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 guests, Crowne Plaza Kochi is the preferred international brand for business, leisure and events. Role Description This is a full-time, on-site role for an Electrician based in Ernakulam. The Electrician will be responsible for performing electrical work, including installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems and equipment. Day-to-day tasks include troubleshooting electrical issues, ensuring all electrical systems are functioning properly, conducting routine maintenance, and complying with safety standards. Qualifications Experience in Electricity and Electrical Engineering Proficiency in Electrical Work and Maintenance & Repair Strong Troubleshooting skills Good understanding of safety standards and protocols Ability to work independently and as part of a team Relevant certifications or licenses in electrical work Previous experience in a similar role is advantageous High school diploma or equivalent; additional technical training or certification is a plus

Assistant restaurant manager kochi,kerala 4 - 8 years INR Not disclosed On-site Full Time

You will be joining our team as an Assistant Restaurant Manager, where your primary responsibility will be to oversee and coordinate all aspects of restaurant functions in collaboration with the Executive and supervisor. Your role will involve managing one or more full-service food and beverage outlets on a daily basis, as well as coordinating special events. Your key responsibilities will include: - Implementing standards outlined in the departmental standards and procedures manual - Adhering to opening and closing procedures - Conducting shift briefings to ensure staff awareness of VIPs, special occasions, and daily specials, with a focus on upselling products - Personally greeting and bidding farewell to at least 80% of customers - Motivating and encouraging staff to deliver optimal service during all shifts - Providing feedback and guest comments to the Chef and Food and Beverage Manager - Developing and implementing Promotions Calendar for F&B products - Managing special event concepts, anticipating market changes, and conducting competitor analysis - Creating positive publicity opportunities and effectively utilizing the customer database - Upselling property facilities While the above outlines your primary duties, please note that additional tasks may be assigned to you as needed. Qualifications required for this role include: - Higher Diploma / Higher Education qualification specialized in the hotel industry or Tourism - Minimum of 4 to 5 years of experience in a 5-star property or similar environment - Excellent written and verbal communication skills - Experience in leading a team with strong leadership abilities - Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and be flexible with day and night shifts - Positive attitude, warm personality, attention to detail, and smart appearance - Strong problem-solving abilities At our organization, we prioritize True Hospitality and care about our people. If you believe you are a great fit for this role, even if you don't meet every single requirement, we encourage you to hit the "Apply" button and start your journey with us today.,

Duty Manager - Crowne Plaza Kochi kochi,kerala 4 - 8 years INR Not disclosed On-site Full Time

The duty of a Duty Manager at Crowne Plaza Kochi involves overseeing daily front desk operations to ensure excellent customer service and satisfaction. This full-time on-site role in Ernakulam requires managing front office staff, handling guest inquiries, and coordinating with other departments for smooth operations. Additionally, administrative tasks such as scheduling, reporting, and record maintenance are part of the responsibilities. To excel in this role, candidates are expected to have a minimum of 4-5 years of experience in a reputed 5-star hotel with at least 200 rooms. Proficiency in Opera Software is essential, along with strong customer satisfaction and customer service skills. Experience in managing Front Office operations, excellent communication skills (both written and verbal), leadership abilities, and team management skills are also necessary. The role demands the ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. A Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred for this position at Crowne Plaza Kochi. The hotel, situated in a tranquil waterfront setting, is the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events, offering 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Backwaters and the City. Guests can enjoy various authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 attendees.,

Assistant Food and Beverage Manager ernakulam,kerala,india 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is strategically located on the NH 47 Bypass, providing easy access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters, and beaches. The hotel offers 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Backwaters and the city. With a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 guests, Crowne Plaza Kochi is the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events. Role Description This is a full-time on-site role for an Assistant Food and Beverage Manager, based in Ernakulam. The Assistant Food and Beverage Manager will be responsible for overseeing daily food and beverage operations, ensuring excellent customer service, managing staff training, and maintaining budgetary controls. The role involves coordinating with different departments to ensure seamless service, supervising food service activities, and addressing any customer concerns promptly. Qualifications Food Service and Food & Beverage management skills Strong Customer Service and Training abilities Experience in Budgeting and financial management Strong leadership and communication skills Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks Relevant degree in hospitality management or related field is a plus Previous experience in a similar role is advantageous with Conference and Banquet Experience

Front Office Manager kerala,india 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is ideally located on the NH 47 Bypass with easy access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, and scenic backwaters and beaches to the south. The hotel offers 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Backwaters and the City. Our variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 guests make Crowne Plaza Kochi the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events. Role Description This is a full-time on-site role located in Kerala, India, for a Front Office Manager. The Front Office Manager will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the front office, ensuring excellent customer service and satisfaction, managing front office staff, and handling office administration tasks. The role also entails coordinating with various departments to ensure smooth operations and providing excellent communication to address guest concerns and inquiries. Qualifications Office Administration and Front Office management skills Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction experience Strong Communication skills Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities Experience in the hospitality industry is a plus Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or related field

Front Office Manager kochi,kerala,india 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is ideally located on the NH 47 Bypass, offering convenient access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters, and beaches to the south. The hotel features 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Backwaters and the City. Known for a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900 guests, Crowne Plaza Kochi is the preferred international brand for business, leisure, and events within a tranquil waterfront setting. Role Description This is a full-time on-site role for a Front Office Manager located in Kochi. The Front Office Manager will be responsible for overseeing daily front office operations, ensuring exceptional customer service and satisfaction. The role includes managing office administration tasks, coordinating front office activities, and maintaining effective communication with guests and staff. The manager will also be involved in staff scheduling, training, and performance management to maintain high operational standards. Qualifications Strong skills in opera software Knowledge and Front Office management Experience in Customer Service and ensuring Customer Satisfaction Excellent Communication skills Leadership and team management abilities Bachelor's degree in Hotel Management, Business Administration, or a related field Prior experience in a similar role within a 5-star hospitality property is preferred Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays

Duty Manager kochi,kerala 4 - 8 years INR Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Role Overview: You will be a Duty Manager at Crowne Plaza Kochi, located in Ernakulam. Your main responsibility will be overseeing daily front desk operations to ensure excellent customer service and satisfaction. This includes managing front office staff, handling guest inquiries, and coordinating with other departments for smooth operations. Your role will also involve administrative tasks such as scheduling, reporting, and maintaining records. Key Responsibilities: - Manage daily front desk operations - Ensure excellent customer service and satisfaction - Supervise front office staff - Handle guest inquiries effectively - Coordinate with other departments for smooth operations - Perform administrative tasks such as scheduling, reporting, and record maintenance Qualification Required: - Proficiency in Opera Software - Minimum of 4-5 years experience in a reputed 5-star hotel with an inventory of 200+ rooms - Strong customer satisfaction and customer service skills - Experience in managing Front Office operations - Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal - Leadership and team management skills - Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment - Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field,

F&B SALES EXECUTIVE kerala,india 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is ideally located on the NH 47 Bypass with easy access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters and beaches to the south. The hotel offers 269 spacious business rooms and suites with panoramic views of the Backwaters and the City. Crowne Plaza Kochi features a variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces for up to 900, all within a tranquil waterfront setting. This makes Crowne Plaza Kochi the preferred International brand for Business, Leisure, and Events. Role Description This is a full-time, on-site role for a Food & Beverage (F&B) Sales Executive, located in Kerala, India. The F&B Sales Executive will be responsible for promoting and selling the hotel’s food and beverage offerings. Day-to-day tasks include engaging with potential clients, developing sales strategies, achieving sales targets, and coordinating with the F&B department to ensure client satisfaction. Additionally, the role includes maintaining a detailed knowledge of the hotel’s F&B services, conducting market research, and attending industry events. Qualifications Sales and Marketing skills Knowledge of the F&B industry and market trends Excellent communication and negotiation skills Proficiency in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software Strong organizational and time-management abilities Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment Previous experience in a similar role is preferred Relevant academic qualifications in hospitality management or a related field

Fitness Instructor kochi,kerala,india 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is a premium international hotel located along the NH 47 Bypass, with convenient access to the airport, central business district, Fort Kochi, stunning backwaters, and beaches. The hotel features 269 spacious rooms and suites offering panoramic city or backwater views. Renowned for its authentic culinary offerings, a tranquil waterfront setting, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and advanced meeting spaces accommodating up to 900 guests, Crowne Plaza Kochi is a preferred destination for business, leisure, and events. Role Description This is a full-time on-site role for a Fitness Instructor located in Kochi. The Fitness Instructor will be responsible for leading group exercise classes, providing personalized fitness instruction, delivering exceptional customer service, and ensuring a safe and engaging environment for guests and members. Additional responsibilities include creating tailored fitness plans, monitoring progress, and promoting overall wellness within the facility. Qualifications Experience in Group Exercise and Fitness Instruction Expertise in Personal Training and familiarity with the Fitness Industry Strong customer service skills with the ability to engage and motivate individuals Certified fitness training credentials from a recognized organization Excellent interpersonal communication and organizational skills Ability to uphold safety and hygiene standards in a fitness environment Experience or familiarity with wellness programs within a hospitality setting is a plus

Kitchen Stewarding Manager kochi,kerala,india 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi is strategically located on the NH 47 Bypass, providing convenient access to the airport, CBD, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters, and nearby beaches. Featuring 269 spacious business rooms and suites with stunning panoramic views of the Backwaters and city, the hotel offers an unparalleled experience for guests. With authentic dining options, a comprehensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces with a capacity of up to 900 attendees, Crowne Plaza Kochi is a premier destination for business travelers, leisure seekers, and event organizers alike. Role Description This is a full-time, on-site role based at Crowne Plaza Kochi for a Kitchen Stewarding Manager. The Kitchen Stewarding Manager will oversee the daily operations of the stewarding team, ensure proper sanitation and hygiene standards in the kitchen and dining areas, and maintain an inventory of kitchen equipment and cleaning supplies. The role involves training and managing staff, coordinating with other departments, and ensuring compliance with food safety and health standards. Additional responsibilities include organizing workflow, ensuring efficient operation of kitchen services, and supporting overall food and beverage operations. Qualifications Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations Previous experience in a similar leadership role in a hospitality sector is preferred A degree or certification in Hospitality Management or a related field is advantageous

Assistant Restaurant Manager kochi,kerala,india 0 years None Not disclosed On-site Full Time

Company Description Crowne Plaza Kochi, ideally located on the NH 47 Bypass, provides convenient access to the airport, central business district, Fort Kochi, scenic backwaters, and beaches. The hotel features 269 well-appointed business rooms and suites offering panoramic views of the backwaters and the city. Renowned for its diverse culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure amenities, and state-of-the-art meeting spaces accommodating up to 900 guests, the property delivers an exceptional experience in a serene waterfront setting. Crowne Plaza Kochi remains the preferred international destination for business, leisure, and events. Role Description This is a full-time on-site role for an Assistant Restaurant Manager at Crowne Plaza Kochi. The role involves overseeing daily restaurant operations, managing staff, ensuring excellence in customer service, and maintaining high standards in food and beverage quality. Responsibilities include staff hiring and training, handling guest inquiries and complaints, and ensuring a smooth dining experience for all customers. Collaboration with other departments is essential to meet business objectives and provide exceptional services. Qualifications Strong Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction skills for maintaining and enhancing guest experiences Proficiency in Communication to effectively interact with team members and guests Experience in Hiring and staff management to build and manage a skilled and motivated restaurant team Knowledge of Food & Beverage operations and standards to oversee and deliver quality service Strong organizational and problem-solving skills to manage restaurant operations efficiently Ability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment Familiarity with hospitality management software and tools is an advantage Educational background in Hospitality Management or related fields is preferred