We chat to the Accor Regional Director of Sales & Marketing for Victoria, Tasmania and SA.
The great thing about my job is…
Diversity – people, tasks, market segments and the geographies we operate in. I would also add the ability to manage short, mid and long term strategy is something that keeps me awake at night and motivated for the next day
The challenge for industry is…
Talent – attracting, retaining and developing our people in the industry is key as we continue to expand into new markets and innovate
My greatest achievement is…
I hope it is yet to be accomplished! The journey of achievements continues and as soon as you have accomplished something then you are looking for the next big thing – that is what drives and motivates us
The biggest thing in MICE this year will be…
Creating a point of difference and the opportunity to surprise and delight each and every guest (this is however not limited to MICE)
I try to relax by…
A bit of yoga, a “short run”, and a read of the weekend papers on the sofa with a cup of tea and biscuits – such a luxury
I don’t understand why…
It still takes 20+ hours to get back to the UK, I sometimes want to be able to pop back to my native home for a long weekend
My favourite venue is…
Having just joined Accor 1 month ago, I have so many amazing properties to choose from but highlights so far are the Quay West in Melbourne for its stunning view, the tree top line of sight from the meeting rooms at Pullman on the Park and the Hotel Lindrum MGallery Felt restaurant for it’s Kangaroo and blackberry Carpaccio
I’ve always wanted to travel to…
Sri Lanka is a future destination I am keen to explore, or rather relax and enjoy. Everyone I have met from Sri Lanka has had the most amazing positive aura and generosity and I would love to be surrounded by such positive influences and beautiful scenery
I am scared to death of… Frogs! Yes, such a small yet unpredictable creature. Imagine how I felt when I first saw cane toads
I can’t live without… now I am back in Melbourne, Koko black chocolate. I always knew it was THE best chocolate around
I really wish I had… better taste buds and the ability to cook impromptu rather than “by the recipe book”
If I could invite four people to a dinner party, they’d be… Maggie Beer, Tom Ford, Judi Dench and Michael Parsons
For anyone starting out in the industry one piece of advice I’d give would be ….
Passion for the industry will make every day seem like you are not working for a living. Embrace the opportunities; enjoy the ever evolving challenges and dynamic environment along with an industry that employs the most amazing personalities – we all have the chance to make an impact on each and every guest no matter how brief our interaction
