To kick us off in January we interviewed Craig Jameson from Down Hall Hotel and Spa. We asked Craig a variety of questions to understand his professional career in more detail as well as asking him what his ideal weekend looks like. Read more to find out what Craig had to say:
1. Tell us about your professional experience within the industry so far?
I have worked in proactive sales roles within the industry since 2010 and have had the chance to experience roles with both global brands and independent properties across the 3,4 & 5* market in London and the UK provinces.
Over the last few years the majority of my focus has been on working with clients in the MICE and Entertainment sectors.
2. What have been your highlights and proud moments so far working in the industry?
One of the things I love about the industry is the variety, so there have been a huge amount of moments that could qualify, however working with a client to confirm an enquiry and then deliver an event for 300 VVIP delegates Including 3 heads of government and a former US President was certainly memorable!
3. What have been some of your biggest challenges in your career?
Finding new ways to engage with clients and ensure that myself and the property(s) that I am representing can stand out in a crowded marketplace.
4. Do you have any personal and professional goals, if so, what are these?
I always want to work somewhere that I can be truly passionate about and believe has something unique and exciting to offer potential clients, after all if I don’t believe in the product why would anyone else.
I also love being involved in change and new projects and having the chance to develop other members of the team helping them achieve their career goals.
For the foreseeable future Down Hall offers me the chance to do all of this.
5. How did you get into the events industry?
I was previously a GM at a local Leisure centre however those that have met me will know that I am definitely not a fitness fanatic, so I was looking for the opportunity to find something that could be a long term career- I was fortunate enough to get a role with Hilton Worldwide and I haven’t looked back since.
6. What led you to work at Down Hall Hotel and Spa?
I was fortunate enough to be approached about the role here, and after doing a little research I was super excited about the huge amount of potential the hotel has, along with the amazing plans for the future.
Down Hall is the quintessentially english country house property, set within a 110-acre estate the hotel has 98 bedrooms, meeting space for up to 200 (with a significant refurbishment finishing in May 2019) and a fantastic restaurant, all less than an hour from central London or Cambridge.
We are also launching an experiential brand called Live at Down Hall with the first event being a weekend of live music in our grounds in June 19 (We have Jools Holland & James Morrison performing)
7. How long have you been in the industry and what has been the most significant change in that time?
There is no doubt a-lot has changed since 2010 – New Tech, Hotel Chain / Agency mergers, changes in buying methods and greater commoditisation.
However – the important things have stayed the same, Clients still want to buy from someone that they can trust to deliver great service, making relationships key!
8. What does your ideal weekend / days off look like?
Relaxing with family and friends - and like a lot of people in the industry I love to travel, I also have a wish list of Michelin Star / High End restaurants that I want to experience.
9. If you had could have a super power, what would this be?
Teleportation – Think the 2008 film “Jumper” (without Samuel L Jackson trying to murder me), but a great way to see the world…and commute to appointments.
10. Where is your dream holiday destination and why?
Madagascar – I’m passionate about wildlife and would love the chance to see some truly unique animals in their natural habitat.
It’s a bonus that I could also enjoy some time on the beach.
