In the latest of a regular series, we check in with leading hoteliers and general managers to get an exclusive glimpse into their careers, their lives and their ambitions. This time, we speak to Caroline King, chief operating officer of Ormond Group.
I enjoy my job because…
There is a strong belief that we are creating a fabulous new hospitality vision in Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia. The Chow Kit and MoMo’s are two very different concepts and both properties are pioneering projects in the Chow Kit area. The team I work with daily are awesome, talented and dedicated to make the plans drawn up a year ago a reality. The real enjoyment comes from seeing both the original concept and the team develop and evolve.
I find my job challenging because…
Establishing a new global brand in a highly competitive market place isn’t easy. You need to stand out from the crowd and that’s what makes it exciting! We have to continually fight for market share. No two days are the same as anything can happen at anytime. That’s the nature of the 24/7 x 365 days hotel business.
My best achievement in business was…
At Red Carnation Hotels I was given the opportunity to be general manager of The Milestone Hotel and Residences in Kensington. Backed with a full renovation and investment into staff and training we took the hotel from being a shabby three/four-star property running extremely low occupancies to a top luxury rated London property successfully meriting the coveted AA five-star award – the first boutique hotel, outside the traditional grand hotels, to achieve this accolade.
My worst mistake in business was…
Early in my career ‘doing everything yourself’ was definitely a weakness of mine. I struggled to delegate, yet learnt over time the importance of time management and what a positive impact you can have when you empower your team.
What I am yet to accomplish…
I’m looking forward to taking the exciting Ormond story around the globe. We have Dublin and Melbourne openings currently in the pipeline.
If I could change one thing about myself…
I would love to be fluent in another language. I admire people who are multi-lingual.
If I could change one thing about the industry…
How we go about attracting and retaining top talent. Employee retention is a significant challenge and the industry will have to adopt processes that see productivity and morale boosted. Improved training, more assistance with career paths and enhanced remuneration by employers are all key.
My top three bucket list items are….
All travel related: 1) See the Northern lights 2) Trek the Inca trail 3) Dive with mantra rays.
My life philosophy is…
Take things one step at a time and be optimistic. I resonate with the saying ‘life has no remote… get up and change it yourself’.
A favourite song, book or film is…
Book wise – Useful Belief by Chris Helder – great book for reframing questions that leads to motivation and performance.
Film wise – the 1986 French movie, Jean de Florette.
My ideal weekend would be …
Take a morning run with friends, followed by brunch, then a chillaxing afternoon – beach, cinema, catching up with friends… or spent with family if in Oz!
