InFocus: British Isles Resorts
After a turbulent year, what does it take to get a leading resort back in full swing?
Whilst the world of golf awaits the forthcoming British Masters Tournament at The Belfry, we asked leading resort hoteliers in the British Isles how they have gone about getting these complex businesses ready for action.
The past 12 months have tested the hospitality sector to its limits, so it is encouraging to hear about some of the positive ways businesses have reacted to successfully navigate these uncertain times. Whilst ensuring the safety and wellbeing of staff returning from furlough, hoteliers have had to figure out ways to jumpstart business and leisure travel demand in the hope of recovery.
From exciting marketing initiatives and new ventures, to new found ways of staying purposeful and maintaining staff morale through a pandemic, we speak to five leaders who share their experiences and vision for these acclaimed and revered luxury hotels and resorts.
Whether you’re a fellow hotelier looking for insight, or a passionate golfer keen to know what goes on behind the scenes, we hope you will find these articles of interest.
Thank you as always to our contributors.
Articles
Conor O’Leary, Managing Director, on the new People & Culture strategy ‘Let’s Stay Together’, the launch of a programme of glamorous outdoor get-togethers, glorious food and great adventures, and Gleneagles’ active role in supporting local communities and businesses.
John Keating talks to Hayley Bortolotti about supporting people returning from furlough, the newly completed renovation program bringing the beautiful 18th century mansion back to life, and what his biggest learning curve has been over the past 12 months.
The Belfry Hotel & Resort will be playing host to the much-anticipated Betfred British Masters 2021. Chris Eigelaar tells us about the retraining initiative for team members returning from furlough, the exciting launch of virtual event setups, and the new Discover campaign connecting guests to the local area.
Colin Johnston, Managing Director, on the Employee Assistance initiative implemented during the pandemic to keep staff members happy, healthy and engaged, developing new guest experiences and what the events of 2020 have taught him.
Ian Edwards on appealing to the staycation market with a strong family offering, opening the Coldra Court Hotel to support the NHS and key workers as well as the Welsh Blood Service throughout the pandemic, and adopting contactless app technology to protect guests whilst streamlining their experience.
Hayley Bortolotti
Associate Director – Hotels & Resorts
With 15 years’ experience in executive recruitment, Hayley has developed an extensive hospitality network and has been instrumental in many of the British Isles’ iconic resort hires. Hayley was previously a successful General Manager in both provincial and London hotels before joining psd. She recruits Operations Directors, General Managers, Senior Corporate and Revenue Management roles.