Hi Kayleigh, tell us a little about your approach to your role.

I’m all about collaboration. The important thing is to focus on what we need to achieve and be flexible with the process in order to get there.

What makes a ‘Dorchester Collection employee’?

Someone who is curious and intrigued by people. Someone who takes pride in and has passion for their endeavours – whatever they may be. Someone who lets their personality shine in every interaction. Simply someone who wants to contribute to others’ happiness.

Has the pandemic changed how people in the organisation view their career and career progression? And has it become harder to attract talent to hospitality?

From the conversations that I have been having internally and at careers fairs, the pandemic has changed how people view careers overall. It is giving us the opportunity to look at our current practices and question if they are still applicable and appropriate. Career progression looks different to each person and it’s no longer expected to have a linear trajectory: side-moves, diagonal and multi-functional/divisional moves have become the norm. As long as people are feeling a sense of meaning with their role and can connect it to the bigger picture – either organisational or personal – there is fulfilment.

Tell us about the benefits and how you create these with employees and their needs front of mind?

We want to ensure we are inclusive for everyone at all stages of their lives with the benefits on offer. Through YOUR VIEW (our employee engagement survey), we have the opportunity to understand exactly what our teams are asking for, so we are fully informed when creating the benefits plans.

Some of the benefits are to experience the hotels and services as a guest. Presumably these also give employees much greater insight?

Absolutely! It’s also a great opportunity for the teams to increase their product knowledge first hand, giving them more opportunities and topics to engage with our guests on and develop meaningful relationships and connections.

How do you want employees to ‘feel’ about working at Dorchester Collection?

Our vision is to create an environment where people feel safe and respected, allowing positive engagement to prosper through the embodiment of our values – a place where our overriding principle is a sense of belonging. A place where our people can thrive and be themselves.

Are you always looking for new benefits to add to the package?

Yes – the needs of our team constantly change so we must look to provide packages that are appropriate and adaptable

What was your latest project?

My last project before maternity leave was going to Dubai preparing for the opening of The Lana. This is a really exciting time for the company.