When did you start at Dorchester Collection?
August 2021 as a Guest Relations Manager.

How did you feel on your first day?
I felt a huge sense of pride walking across the bridge to work for the best of the best. However, I was also nervous about making a good first impression. Thankfully, there was absolutely no reason to be nervous. Everyone was so welcoming and kind.

What has surprised you about working at Dorchester Collection?
We really do put the employees at the heart of what we do. And what we say matters. Any time I have a question or a new idea, it is welcomed with an open mind.

What are the most enjoyable parts of your job?
The Guest Relations team at Hotel Bel-Air is the best team I have ever worked with and every day I get to learn from them. Also, I am so grateful for the learning journey I have been on with Dorchester Collection and Hotel Bel-Air – and the guests. I’ve met the most incredible people from all over the world.

And what are the biggest challenges?
Navigating through this last year with so much change within my department and the hotel was uncharted territory for me. There is more to do, but I am immensely proud of our team so far and look forward to what is next.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying for a position at Dorchester Collection?
If you have a passion for hospitality and luxury, you’ve found the right place.

What other Dorchester Collection hotel would you like to visit and why?
I am fortunate enough to have visited all the hotels in our beautiful collection. I would love to return to Coworth Park – the grounds are beautiful and the rooms are charming.

When did you start at Dorchester Collection?

My first adventure within Dorchester Collection was in September 2007 as a young apprentice at the then Alain Ducasse restaurant at Hôtel Plaza Athénée. Then I returned to the collection at Le Meurice Alain Ducasse in October 2020 as Restaurant Director.

How did you feel on your first day?

All I remember from the first day as an apprentice are the crystal chandeliers that hung in the restaurant’s dining room. I was dazzled by the splendour of the place.

What are the most enjoyable parts of your job?

All the moments shared with my teams on a daily basis to bring the restaurant to life, all the adventures and unique moments we create. And all the creative moments I share with my partner, executive chef Amaury Bouhours.

And what are the biggest challenges?

These are to continue to be creative and constantly curious and evolving, whether it’s in the food we serve or in the level of hospitality, in the tableware or in the events we put on. But to achieve this we have a good coach watching over us in chef Alain Ducasse.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying for a position at Dorchester Collection?

Don’t hesitate to push open the doors of these extraordinary homes. Anyone with a passion for hospitality and craftsmanship is welcome, and Dorchester Collection will help you grow, reveal and affirm your talent.

What other Dorchester Collection hotel would you like to visit and why?

The Beverly Hills Hotel, staying like a Hollywood star. And I mean superstar!

How has Dorchester Collection changed in time you have been there?

Dorchester Collection has always been a great place to work, but it has got progressively better through the years. We have strong benefits and our ‘We Care’ philosophy has always been very apparent in our business.

What has it been like to work in the same company for a long time?

Time flies! it is difficult to believe I’ve been here almost nine years. I’ve been able to achieve goals with Dorchester Collection that I never thought possible. I feel very recognised by my Dorchester Collection family and guests alike.

What are your favourite memories of your time at Dorchester Collection?

Being awarded three Michelin Keys as a hotel was an amazing achievement.

What would you say to someone starting out on their career at Dorchester Collection today?

Have an open ear to listen, learn and be humble. Your first six months to a year with the company is a lot of learning. The Beverly Hills Hotel is a unique and special place. Our operation is incredible, so it takes time to really learn it all.

What are the main things you’ve learned in your time at Dorchester Collection?

I’ve learned what it means to be a great leader. I’ve learned through my role with the company how to lead with patience. I’ve learned a lot of operational skills on how to navigate business in an ultra-luxury setting.

Do you remember your first day?

I was very shy and I got lost multiple times trying to navigate through the building. Everyone treated me very well. I felt very embraced by the team, which helped shed the nerves. I still remember my Engage orientation group and am very close to my colleagues I went through Engage with all these years later.

What other Dorchester Collection hotel would you like to visit and why?

Although I love getting to work at The Beverly Hills Hotel – and it is my favourite place – I really look forward to visiting The Torch in Tokyo one day, because I’ve always wanted to visit Japan. Of course, there’s the Lana in Dubai, too, and I also really enjoy the outdoors, so I’d like to visit Coworth Park.