Chris, tell us, how did you find out about the role 35 years ago?
“I read about it in the Evening Standard on the train back from London. I’d had a stressful day at work and I decided I wanted a change, and there the advert was. It was the size of a postage stamp!”
What do you enjoy about the job?
“I enjoy the diversity – you never know what the day will bring until you walk through those doors. Also, ever since I joined, I’ve loved the fact that the owners of the hotel have never stopped investing in the property. I started work on the 15th December and by the Boxing Day, they were ripping out the restaurant and doing it up – the refurbishments have continued ever since. It keeps things interesting.”
What sort of things do you do day-to-day as Maintenance Manager?
“First and foremost I manage my small, but perfectly formed, team of five. I make sure that the maintenance stocklists are done, plan for preventative maintenance and then take a general look around the hotel to check for potential hazards and leaks, and of course, to make sure that everything is working as it should be.”
What upcoming projects have you got to work on?
“We’ve got a river-source heat pump being installed in the boiler house which should be up and running by Christmas.”
If you didn’t work in maintenance, what would your dream job be?
“I’m not sure, but I’d like to work abroad – somewhere with a warm and sunny climate!”
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
“ I’d like to visit Canada, with its wide open spaces. Although, I don’t tend to travel too much, and it’s harder with two kids…”
Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
“If I’m still alive? Definitely retired! I go bowling and do a bit of fishing in my spare time so that would play a part. I recently took guardianship over my two grandchildren as well, so they will definitely keep me busy!”
