WE ❤️ HOSPITALITY - Brett Murray

The last year has been terrible for the hospitality sector. Most businesses have seen extreme financial challenges and its reputation as an employer has been severely affected.We are now hearing from many, many of our clients about their fears for the future from staff shortages to skills gaps and top mid-senior talent moving to other sectors.Krishnan Doyle is sharing his conversations with service industry leaders and operators on all that is good about hospitality & catering with the purpose to improve the sector's reputation as one of the largest employer worldwide but also as a great place to develop your career. 

How did you get into hospitality?

I was an avid performer, and originally saw hospitality as a part time job. I soon became enthralled by the busy peaks, low troughs and the fast-paced environment… I stepped into a junior position on the floor in Chelsea with zero experience and grew into junior management. From there soaking up experience and always pushing to learn more. Asking for feedback and worked hard on bettering myself. If there’s one thing I can relay from my journey into the sector, the industry is crying out for passionate individuals who are looking to grow, and develop & opportunity will arise for those who are passionate.

Do you think it is important to have studied hospitality to be a success in the sector?

Not at all, Hospitality derives from connection and passion, the rest can be trained. Some of the most rewarding moments of my career to date are seeing team members fall into the profession and thrive because they connect, not just with the guests but with vision, product and with a sense of comradery. Oscar Wilde’s words on experience always stuck with me “Experience is simply the word we give our mistakes”. 

Which leader / figure inspired you and why?

It’s hard not to be inspired in this industry as it often draws so many fascinating and personable characters. If you build the right teams around you, you’re often surprised, delighted and inspired daily. I’ve taken so much inspiration from my teams, not necessarily in leadership positions. Whilst some junior staff still have a lot to learn, their experiences “From the trenches” (from training and to being managed) often opens up a wealth of insight. The perspective I gain allows me to take a deeper look at myself and helps me challenge myself to grow constantly.

What keeps you in the sector and why to you enjoy working in it?

The people. Mentorship and development are so important. To be surrounded by teams with energy, passion is what keeps me going. To be around great food and drink is just the icing on the cake!! 

Tell us about the development / training that you give to your teams and management

Development and training have always been the core of my mission within this industry, a reflection on my own path. I think the most valuable training we give is making sure that our teams are supported and listened to on a day to day basis. Trust is a great springboard for further development, let your employees make mistakes. Coach and guide them on the best foot forward but allow for a few tight turns and dips in the road. Manage expectations with clear timelines and never underestimate the need for feedback and positive recognition. It’s like learning a language, the best development happens on a day to day basis.

If you could go back and tell yourself one piece of advice as you started your career, what would it be?

Take every chance you can get, ask more questions and don’t rush moments, it’s important to always look to the future but make sure you appreciate the now and the time you have!

If you would like to take part as a leader in this thriving sector, get in touch with Krishnan (krishnan@corecruitment.com)