Meet 'Lord' Paul Whittle, Winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award
- lisahylton2
- Sep 29
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 20
Head Concierge at The Dorchester and International Delegate for The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and the Commonwealth, Paul has enjoyed a truly distinguished career.
WHERE HIS JOURNEY BEGAN
Paul Whittle’s journey into hospitality is as unique as it is distinguished. Before entering the world of hotels, Paul studied photography at Northumbria University, later working professionally in the field between 1983 and 1985. However, it was the re-opening of the Piccadilly Hotel in 1985, at the time owned by the Guinness family, that marked the beginning of what would become an extraordinary 38-year career at a single address.
Paul started humbly as a Luggage Porter, but his natural poise, dedication and gracious manner saw him quickly promoted to Luggage Master in 1986.
A GOLDEN FUTURE
A year later, in 1987, Paul joined the Concierge Desk at the Piccadilly under the stewardship of the late Roger Wynn, and by 1991 he was appointed Assistant Head Concierge.
Paul earned his Golden Keys in 1992, a proud milestone that confirmed what many already knew — he was a true professional with a bright future.
The hotel itself was to undergo several transformations. After being taken over by Air France, it was rebranded as Le Méridien. Ownership then passed through Forte Hotels, Starwood, and eventually Marriott, before the property reopened as The Dilly in later years. Through every change, Paul remained the constant, a reassuring figure of continuity and excellence.
AN EMERGING LEADER
In the early 2000s, Paul was formally appointed Head Concierge at The Dilly, and by 2014 he had also taken on the role of Director of Guest Experience, overseeing both front-facing guest service and broader operational standards. In 2004, he was selected to participate in the prestigious Starwood Leadership Programme, a three-year executive development initiative recognising emerging leaders within the group.
"Known affectionately as 'Lord Whittle', a nickname born of his refined demeanour and legendary politeness, Paul was gifted an official lordship by colleagues" - Simon Thomas (Society Vice President)
A NEW CHAPTER
Paul played a pivotal role in the hotel’s final transformation to The Dilly in 2021, before finally moving on in 2022 to take up the role of Head Concierge at The Dorchester, a fitting next chapter at one of London’s most celebrated addresses.
Beyond the lobby, Paul has been a devoted servant to The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and the Commonwealth. He joined the Board in 2005 as Social Chairman, a position he held for many years, before being appointed as the Society’s International Delegate, a role he continues to fulfil to this day, proudly representing the UK at congresses around the world.
TRULY REMARKABLE
Known affectionately within the profession as 'Lord Whittle', a nickname born of his refined demeanour and legendary politeness, Paul was in fact gifted an official lordship by colleagues as his leaving present from The Dilly, a title which, fittingly, now appears on his correspondence.
Binoy Nair, President of The Society of the Golden Keys said: "With more than three decades of dedicated service, Paul remains a respected leader, a quiet mentor, and one of the most gracious gentlemen in our industry. His commitment to the values of hospitality, his elegance in execution, and his remarkable loyalty make him a truly singular figure in the world of luxury hotels."
You can read all about the Where Golden Keys Concierge Awards here.
