LAGNIAPPE
Historical figure you ’ d like to host ?
On his first visit to the U . K . after being released from jail in South Africa , Nelson Mandela stayed at our hotel . To meet such a legend and shake his hand is something I would have loved to have been present for .
If not a hotelier … ?
A psychologist . I was actually very close to studying it but my mentor at the time , who happened to be the bar manager , said , “ Why would you want to go and study that when you can exercise it all day , every day , standing in a lobby or behind a bar ?”
Who taught you your biggest business lesson ?
The GM of the Westin Dublin , when I was there , was very focused on the site inspection process , and it still resonates to this day with me . It ’ s important to have an eye for detail – if you don ’ t spot something , there ’ s always a guest who will !
A personal skill that makes you unique as a hotelier ?
Linked to my interest in psychology , I like to think I ’ m very personable and love speaking to guests to get an important insight into their stay and what they need and expect from us . I particularly enjoy sitting down with guests that stay with us on a regular basis .
What would you like to have more time for ?
I would like more time to explore London ’ s bar and restaurant scene . As it continues to expand , there is so much that is still undiscovered .
KIERAN QUINN
GENERAL MANAGER SHERATON GRAND LONDON PARK LANE
Kieran Quinn is a 16-year veteran of the hospitality industry , most recently at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh . As executive assistant manager , he was responsible for planning and executing a multimillionpound refurbishment . He joined the Park Lane in 2012 and has led the 90-year-old hotel ’ s renovation and repositioning in the London market .
What do you do better than anyone else ?
Make mushroom risotto . I am supposed to have a duel with our Italian chef from Mercante … but I have secretly been avoiding it for months !
What part of your job requires the most creative thinking ?
Those instances when the team comes into the office and says , “ Kieran , we have a problem and a very , very limited time to resolve this .” The renovation in particular threw these up on a regular basis , but I am really proud of where we are today .