Career in Hospitality | Meet Dominic, Our Operations Manager
At Stonehouse Court, we love getting to know our team members - and this week, we’re introducing Dominic, our operations manager, as he tells us all about his career in hospitality.
Line manager to our heads of department, Dominic oversees the day-to-day running of the hotel, whilst ensuring that our guests enjoy their stay.
Keep reading to find out more about Dominic’s role:
Career in Hospitality: Dominic’s Day-to-Day Life at Stonehouse Court
Dominic has been part of the Stonehouse Court family for 10 years - and as part of his role as operations manager, Dominic ensures that the hotel runs smoothly and effectively on a daily basis: “My role is to ensure that every guest who walks through our doors has the best possible experience and leaves feeling fully satisfied.
“I am the line manager to our heads of department - so on a daily basis, I will liaise with the head housekeeper and meet with the maintenance team. I’ll also check on the kitchen to make sure everything is running smoothly before leading the largest team in the hotel, which is the food & beverage department.
“My experience - up to this point - has been heavily front-of-house based, which I am passionate about. Luckily, I have some help with that thanks to my superb team of managers and supervisors who oversee the restaurant, bars and events alongside me (and on my behalf).
“I take a hands-on approach to my work and I’m not afraid to get stuck in. We host many large weddings and events, for which I am often the master of ceremonies/co-ordinator - a role which is certainly a privilege.
“The back office duties can’t be ignored; rotas, ordering, recruitment and weekly meetings all form a very large part of my job. My weeks are full and busy - but I wouldn’t want it any other way!”
Career in Hospitality: Dominic’s Journey in the Hospitality Industry
Throughout his career in hospitality, Dominic has enjoyed working in various departments and working his way up the ranks: “My hospitality journey has almost exclusively been Stonehouse Court Hotel!
“I started as a part-time waiter when I was 16, and over the years, I have risen through the ranks to where I am now.
“Like many, my hospitality career sort of progressed by accident; during my first shift, I never imagined that I would still be here ten years later helping to run the place. That being said, as a kid, I had always imagined that one day I would have a restaurant, and I have always been passionate about food - so it was obviously meant to be!
“No two days are the same in this industry, and that is part of what keeps it fresh and exciting – sometimes we have to expect the unexpected! It’s amazing to meet so many guests on a daily basis, but a particular highlight has to be at the end of a wedding day. Playing a small part in a happy couple’s big day is an incredibly rewarding feeling!
“I’ve plenty of wonderful memories of the time I’ve spent at Stonehouse Court so far; too many to count! That being said, over the years, I have been known to be a little bit accident-prone. The staff have even made a compilation video of my ‘greatest falls’ - I’ve gained a bit of a reputation for that!”
Dominic’s Qualifications and Training
Prior to his progression within Stonehouse Court, Dominic achieved a range of qualifications to help him along the way: “I gained an NVQ in Hospitality and Leadership, and of course GCSEs and A Levels. It is only the in-house training that has allowed me to get to where I am now. Stonehouse Court has taught me everything I know!
“My passion for food and restaurants in particular was a leading factor in my decision to pursue hospitality as a career. But, it was thanks to my colleagues and managers who saw potential in me and gave me the encouragement and training I needed, which led me to where I am now.”
Dominic’s Future at Stonehouse Court
As Dominic reflects on ten years at the hotel, he’s told us about his favourite part of working here: “I like to think we are fairly unique; you won’t find another Stonehouse Court! The team is what makes it special for me; everyone is local and gets on well. It’s definitely like a family.
“Apart from its close convenience to where I live, the opportunities have been endless for me here.
“The hotel is always expanding and changing, and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s on the horizon. I don’t know if I’m allowed to share what it is yet… but it’s exciting!”
A Few Quick-Fire Questions:
What do you like to do in your spare time? What are your hobbies?
I like to keep busy. I enjoy cooking and I’m always trying to better myself (I probably need a few shifts in the kitchen to learn a thing or two!).
What advice would you give to someone thinking about a career in hospitality?
I would advise anyone and everyone to give it a go. Whether it’s a career or just your first part-time job, you will learn so much from it and it will give you life skills that you didn’t even know you needed. As a career, it’s rewarding, it’s fast paced, it’s good fun – but not for those who are shy of hard work!
Can you describe Stonehouse Court Hotel in three words?
A wonderful place.
We’d like to thank Dominic for taking the time to delve into his extensive career in hospitality.
If you’d like to find out more about our team, or you’d like to make a reservation, please do browse our website.
Alternatively, to discover how we’re working together to make the world a better place, take a look at our green story.
