The 'Last' Word...
- lisahylton2
- May 5
- 4 min read
The Tourism Media Group's very own hotel detective, Charlotte Johnson-Last, spills the beans on what's happening on the London hotel scene. But is she the 'last to know'?
When she's not working as the TMG's Senior Business Development Manager, organising key events, planning Concierge menu tastings and so much more, Charlotte loves nothing more than visiting London hotels, sampling spas and restaurants, meeting Concierge and getting the low-down on what's what, who's who and what's new on the hospitality scene.
CONGRATULATIONS...
A Milestone for a Concierge Icon
Head Concierge David Haines, is celebrating 15 years at the Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge.
During his time at the hotel, David has had an interesting and rewarding career, from finding elephants for a wedding to receiving prestigious awards.
David said: "When we first opened, we did an Indian wedding and I had to get an elephant to come across the bridge - that was quite cool."
The most awarded Concierge in the UK and Commonwealth, David has received:
London Concierge of the Year
Service Through Friendship
25 Year Service Pin
Lifetime Achiecement Award
Honorary Life Membership
A spokesperson from the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge said: "From finding elephants for weddings to being the most awarded concierge in the UK and the commonwealth - what a 15 years it has been; we're excited to see what happens next!"
A spokesperson for The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain, said: "An icon in our profession! David Haines, a member of our section for Les Clefs d'Or® International since April 1992, continues to set the standard with dedication, warmth, and excellence. Congratulations to David and the team at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London on this wonderful milestone!"
You can read more about David's achivements and career here.
A New Baby!
Huge congratulations to Jack McCarthy, Front Office & Concierge Manager at 1 Hotels Mayfair and wife Sommer on the arrival of their baby, Hallie-Mae.
The proud Dad said: "Little one is doing really well and currently sleeping of a night which is a blessing!
"Sommer has also recovered really quickly, which is great and my eldest two boys have been so supportive and affectionate which is amazing.
Dedication to Service
Kevin Schwarz is being celebrated for notching up more than 17 years at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park.
Matthew Jackson, Head Concierge at the hotel, said:"I would like to place a spotlight on Kevin Schwarz, one of our Assistant Head Concierge at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. Kevin has been with Mandarin Oriental for over 17 years and his experience is invaluable to our desk. Kevin was promoted to Assistant Head Concierge back in May 2023.
He added: "Kevin is our department trainer, with the highest of service standards always in mind. Kevin challenges the team to make sure we are always showcasing the very best of ourselves and delivering exceptional experiences to our guests and colleagues."
Matthew concluded:"Thank you Kevin for all your hard work and keep smiling!"
A spokesperson for The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and the Commonwealth, said: "With over 17 years at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park and a true dedication to service excellence, Kevin Schwarz continues to lead by example raising standards, supporting his team, and inspiring those around him. A brilliant example of commitment and passion!"
Anniversary Pins for Three Concierges
Congratulations to three members of The Society of the Golden Keys for receiving their 25-Year Anniversary Pins during the Anniversary Cocktail Party at the Mandarin Oriental:
Richard Price, Head Concierge at The Wellesley Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Keith Bewick, Chief Concierge at The Landmark London
Ashley Harman, Senior Concierge at The Lanesborough
A spokesperson for The Society said: "As part of our wonderful Anniversary Cocktail Party at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park London , we were proud to honour three exceptional members of our Society who were each presented with their Les Clefs d'Or® International 25-Year Anniversary Pin. A true milestone of dedication, service, and excellence!"
They added: "Your commitment to the values of our Society and the art of true hospitality continues to inspire us all!"
NEWS IN BRIEF
Congratulations to the newest members of the Les Clefs d'Or® International family:
Zbigniew Kedziora, Concierge at The Savoy, sponsored by Darren Muylders and Amine Abdelghafour.
Marco Russo, Concierge Supervisor at Kimpton Fitzroy London, sponsored by Ruairi McDowell and Binoy Nair.
Simon Quinn, Concierge at Claridge's, sponsored by David Young MIH and Nigel Firth.
Léa Mélot, Concierge at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts London at Park Lane - Sponsored by Michael Hagan and Mayur Niphade.
Enrique Martín, Concierge at The Park Tower Knightsbridge, A Luxury Collection Hotel - Sponsored by Neil Cowen and Oscar Fernandez.
Michael Dobilaitis, Concierge at Hotel Café Royal - Sponsored by Karim Bernichi and David Haines.
Silvio Forino, Head Concierge at Park Hyatt London River Thames - Sponsored by Simone Caretti and Sahil Suri.
PSST...
Have you got news for Charlotte to share? Drop her an email at charlotte.last@tourismmediagroup.com
