Welcome to our special feature celebrating National Hospitality Day, a day dedicated to acknowledging the hard work, resilience, and passion that fuel the hospitality industry. As we navigate through this vibrant and ever-changing field, we are reminded of the incredible people and places that make it what it is. In this blog, we are honoured to spotlight some extraordinary individuals and remarkable venues that define the essence of hospitality. From overcoming challenges to setting the standard for excellence, their stories not only inspire but also illustrate why this industry is so compelling and crucial.
Maz Hassan Mazooz
Meet Maz Hassan Mazooz, a man of many talents and a passion for hospitality. Born in Kuwait, Maz is a Jordanian/British citizen fluent in English, Arabic, and French. With over four decades of experience in the industry, he’s a force to be reckoned with, having worked his way up from the ground floor to managerial roles in various esteemed establishments.
Maz’s journey in hospitality started when he moved to the UK in 1981 to study the craft at Watford Catering College in North London. Ever since he has been climbing the ladder of success in the industry. From casual dining to 3 AA Rosette and 5-star hotels, he has seen and done it all.
When asked what he loves about working in the hospitality industry, Maz had this to say: “I love all aspects of the industry and meeting different people. I’m very passionate about providing great customer service, being part of a team, and always going the extra mile for guests.” His love for the job is evident in his drive to excel in every aspect, from customer service to team dynamics.
Concerning stigmas within the industry, Maz acknowledges the issue of staff shortages. He believes that many students enter the field seeing it as a quick money-making opportunity rather than a fulfilling career. Maz counters this notion, stating, “It’s a great industry to be in; I would never do a 9 -5 job. The industry gives you the opportunity to travel, learn, and work across various departments of a business, learning new skills.”
Maz Hassan Mazooz is more than just a hospitality professional; he is a true aficionado of the industry. His passion for customer service, team dynamics, and the rich experiences that come with the job make him a standout figure. Maz not only challenges the stigmas around the hospitality sector but also serves as an example that a career in hospitality can be as rewarding as it is demanding. Maz’s journey shows us that with the right attitude and an open heart, the hospitality world offers not just a job but a lifestyle full of enriching experiences.
The Alexander Hotel Collection
The Alexander Hotel Collection is a compilation of unique hotels and spas graced with history, opulence, and superior service. Situated just beyond the hustle and bustle of London, each property within this collection has its own tale to tell, its own charm to offer, and its own standard of excellence to maintain. Founded in 1994 by Peter & Deborah Hinchcliffe, the Alexander Hotel Collection has grown to encompass five unique country house hotels and two lavish spas. Whether you’re captivated by the 5-star glory of Great Fosters, complete with its Michelin-starred restaurant The Tudor Pass, or the architectural brilliance of Barnett Hill, there’s something in this collection for every guest.
“The Hospitality industry is so vast and varied, offering a style of business that would suit every guest and every employee. Every day in the industry is different, never boring, fast-moving, demanding with great opportunities and great rewards for those that stay and grow within the industry,” says the team behind the Alexander Hotel Collection. Their statement encapsulates the essence of what makes hospitality a phenomenal field to be part of.
The Alexander Hotel Collection prides itself on its commitment to employee growth and recognition. “We have three out of our five General Managers who joined us in junior management roles and have worked hard and gained experience. They are now heading up our flagship hotels responsible for growing the new managers of the future,” the company shares, exemplifying their investment in internal talent. They further celebrate their staff through various recognition schemes and training partnerships, illustrating the limitless opportunities within the hospitality sector.
The Alexander Hotel Collection isn’t just a portfolio of luxury hotels and spas; it’s a beacon for what the hospitality industry can achieve. From providing a diverse range of experiences for guests to fostering a nurturing environment for employees, they truly set the gold standard. This National Hospitality Day, we celebrate not just the luxury and elegance that the Alexander Hotel Collection offers, but also the passion, dedication, and opportunities that make it a cornerstone in the hospitality industry.
Jaspal Negi
Jaspal Negi’s story is one of resilience, passion, and a lifelong commitment to the hospitality industry. With over 30 years of experience, Jaspal has navigated through diverse roles and locations, eventually finding his niche in the world of luxury hospitality. Currently serving as a Food and Beverage Manager, his journey has been anything but ordinary, making his success more remarkable.
Jaspal started his career in hotel management in India under the mentorship of a supervisor. Eager for new opportunities and challenges, he moved to Scotland on a work permit. The journey wasn’t always smooth; he faced struggles to secure a job due to work permit restrictions and had to work in a café to stay in the country while also working part-time in a hotel. Finally, after a few more steps, he secured a permanent position in a 1 Michelin-starred Hotel. His heart has always been set on luxury work, and it shows.
When asked what fuels his passion for hospitality, Jaspal highlights the industry’s inclusive nature: “Hospitality is keeping prestige alive. People with no degrees or diplomas can get a job. Giving normal people a job gives them a chance to succeed.” He appreciates the industry for giving him the opportunity to engage with people from all walks of life, stating that it “gives you a chance to feel good.”
Jaspal is candid about the challenges the industry faces, especially post-COVID. He discusses the current sponsorship system, which he believes is restricting many people from abroad from securing jobs in hospitality. “The industry is cutting corners because there are no staff, but there are people out there who could do the job. This is causing the industry-wide standard to drop, and it doesn’t look good,” he says.
Jaspal Negi is not just a Food and Beverage manager; he’s an embodiment of what the hospitality industry stands for—opportunity, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. His journey from cafés in Scotland to Michelin-starred hotels in the UK exemplifies the vast opportunities the field offers. Jaspal’s insights into the industry’s current challenges are a clarion call for improvement, but his faith in the field’s ability to offer chances to ‘normal people’ makes him an inspiring figure in the landscape of luxury hospitality.
Rockliffe Hall
Rockliffe Hall is the North East’s only five-star resort and a name synonymous with luxury. Established in 2009, the resort has evolved dramatically over the past 14 years without losing its core identity as the number one luxury destination in the area. With 61 bedrooms, three on-resort restaurants, a Championship golf course, and award-winning spa and wellness facilities, Rockliffe Hall is the epitome of opulence and comfort.
Rockliffe Hall’s journey began 14 years ago with the mission to provide a one-of-a-kind luxury experience. Over the years, the resort has continually adapted and grown while preserving its core values. Today, it offers a comprehensive luxury experience, boasting an array of amenities that cater to all sorts of guests, from spa enthusiasts to golf lovers.
When it comes to what makes hospitality a fantastic industry, Rockliffe Hall sums it up perfectly: “Hospitality is such a dynamic industry which makes it really exciting. Each day is different, so you learn to expect the unexpected!” The resort embodies this dynamism, offering a myriad of experiences that promise something new every day.
Rockliffe Hall goes above and beyond in supporting its staff. The resort offers a range of support channels, from internal and external training to employee assistance programs. There’s also a well-being section on the company intranet that provides resources ranging from meditation guides to mental health support services. But the resort doesn’t just stop at support; it celebrates its employees through the “Rockstar of the Month” and “Rockstar of the Year” awards. These honours recognize team members who truly live by the resort’s core values, acknowledging the essential role they play in making Rockliffe Hall a leading name in hospitality.
Rockliffe Hall isn’t just a luxury resort; it’s a vibrant community that understands the essence of hospitality. The resort represents the best the industry has to offer, not just in terms of facilities and guest experiences, but also in how it treats its staff. From being a dynamic place to work to providing an award-winning experience for guests, Rockliffe Hall stands as a testament to what makes hospitality a truly great industry. The resort not only sets the bar high for luxury destinations but also serves as an example of how to nurture and celebrate the people who make it all possible.
Jack Bond and Simon Ulph
Jack Bond and Simon Ulph, esteemed members of the culinary world, have uniquely shaped their careers, turning hospitality into an art form. Jack, the Head Chef at the Michelin Star restaurant, Source at Gilpin, embarked on his culinary journey as a Commis chef at Restaurant Marcus and swiftly climbed the ladder to Senior Sous Chef. His culinary adventure then took him to renowned establishments like Eleven Madison Square and Davis and Brooke under the mastery of Daniel Humm. Simon Ulph, adding his culinary flair to the Ginger Brigade of Relief Chefs, is currently working alongside Jack at Source at Gilpin. The restaurant is acclaimed for its impeccable focus on local produce, distinct flavours, seasonality, sustainability, and meticulous attention to detail, mirroring a canvas painted with precision and passion.
When asked about what they love about the hospitality industry, Jack mentions his love for the diversity of the job and the variety of characters one meets. He cherishes the creative aspect of the role, creating a symphony of flavours and experiences. Simon shares this passion, contributing his exceptional skills to enhance the culinary experiences at Source at Gilpin. The enthusiasm and love for the industry emanate through their dedication and innovative approach to gastronomy. “I like the different characters you meet and the diversity of the job and the creative aspect,” says Jack, encapsulating the essence of his journey in the hospitality industry.
Discussing the stigmas in the industry, both Jack and Simon advocate for a healthy work-life balance and routine. They assert that these are the keystones for building a sustainable business in the hospitality sector. “A healthy work-life balance with routine is key for a sustainable business,” Jack and Simon resonate. They emphasize the paramount importance of fostering a positive workplace and providing robust support structures. Their approach is holistic, focusing on creating an environment where mental health is prioritized, and staff feel safe and comfortable seeking help when needed. “Creating a positive workplace with support for anyone is vital for tackling the stigma surrounding mental health in our industry, making sure staff have a safe and comfortable place to be able to come to if they need help,” they state firmly.
Each story we’ve shared today serves as a testament to the passion, dedication, and ingenuity that are the hallmarks of this wonderful field. On this National Hospitality Day, let’s take a moment to celebrate not just the Michelin-starred hotels or the five-star resorts, but every individual, from the Food and Beverage Manager to Head Chef, who contributes to making our experiences memorable. Here’s to the unsung heroes and the renowned establishments that together make the hospitality industry the epitome of warmth, service, and excellence. Happy National Hospitality Day!
