The 'Last' Word...

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'?

Charlotte Johnson-Last, TMG's Senior Business Development Manager

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...

Les Clefs d'Or Honour for Toru

Congratulations to Toru Machida, Head Concierge at The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel and past President of The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and the Commonwealth, on being elected as the new Wester Europe Zone Director of Les Clefs d'Or International!

A spokesman for The Society said: "Toru's dedication and leadership as our past Section President have been truly inspiring, and we have no doubt that he will continue to elevate our profession locally and internationally. Wishing him great success in representing and guiding us!"

Toru said: "I can't thank enough for the kind words and support from so many friends. I feel truly humbled and honoured to be trusted with this role within Les Clefs d'Or International. I'm excited for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the Concierge profession and the hospitality industry."

Another Milestone for Tom

Tom Wardley, Head Concierge at The Londoner Hotel, is celebrating nine years since he proudly received his golden keys and became a member of The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and the Commonwealth.

Antony Lynch presented Tom Wardley with his golden keys nine years ago.

Tom said: "Today marks nine years since I proudly received my golden keys and became a member of The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and the Commonwealth. Reflecting on nearly a decade of wearing these keys, I’m reminded that being a Concierge is not just a career – it’s a way of life.

"It’s a life built on passion, service and dedication, but most importantly, it’s about people. The friendships formed, the mentors who’ve guided me, and the global network of colleagues who are always just a call away – these are the things that make this profession so special.

Tom, a previous Young Concierge of the Year award winner, added: "To those who have supported me on this journey – thank you. And to those just starting theirs: work hard, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of a strong network.

"Here’s to the next chapter and to the incredible family that is Les Clefs d’Or."

Long Service

Congratulations to Antony Lynch, who has hit another milestone in his Concierge Career - celebrating 27 years at Hilton London Kensington. Last month, Head Concierge Antony notched up 22 years at The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and the Commonwealth - for which he serves as Social Chair.

A New Chapter

John Coleman, General Secretary of Les Clefs d’Or Ireland, has joined the Maryborough Hotel & Spa as Guest Relations Manager and Concierge.

Announcing the new position, John said:

"Helping turn moments into memories at the Maryborough Hotel is the title of my next chapter. I am delighted and excited to become part of the great team as Guest relations manager & Concierge at this stunning 315 year old property. I look forward to helping to further enhance every guest experience. Don’t forget my mantra is 'check in as a guest, check out as a friend'."

John was previously Concierge Manager at Fota Island Resort, also in Cork, where he worked for four years.

He said: "It has been an amazing four years of looking after leisure and corporate guests along with so many wedding couples and their families. A big thank you to my great Concierge team along with all the team members within the resort."

Running Success!

Huge congratulations to Jakub Stefanowicz, Deputy Head Concierge at The Landmark London, and his team on completing the London Landmarks Half Marathon.

Not only did they cross the finish line in style, but they also raised vital funds and awareness for DEBRA UK, a charity supporting those living with the rare genetic skin blistering condition, epidermolysis bullosa (EB), also known as ‘butterfly skin’.

A spokesman for The Society of the Golden Keys said: "Your commitment, both on and off the course, is a true reflection of the values we uphold as Concierge: dedication, compassion, and going the extra mile (or 13.1 of them!)."

NEWS IN BRIEF

Christophe Caron has started a new position as Head Concierge at The Park Tower Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection Hotel. He previously worked as Head Concierge at The Peninsula London.
Robert DeCozar has been promoted to Senior Concierge at The Ritz London.
I’m happy to share that I’ve been promoted to Senior Concierge at The Ritz London!
Joseph Buckstone has been promoted to Head Concierge at the Kimpton Fitzroy Hotel.
Conor McDowell has moved from Six Senses London Hotel to Rosewood Chancery as Head Concierge.
Ruairi McDowell has moved from Kimpton Fitzroy Hotel to Six Senses London Hotel as Head Concierge.
As previously rumoured, Sahil Suri has moved from Park Hyatt London River Thames to Jumeirah Carlton Tower as Head Concierge.
Gianmaria Mancini has moved from Sofitel London St James to Corinthia London as Concierge.
Timothy Turner has moved from Grosvenor House Suite to Montcalm Mayfair as Head Concierge.
Marcus Santos has moved from Taj St James Court to Broadwick Soho Hotel as Concierge (you heard it here first!)

PSST...

Have you got news for Charlotte to share? Drop her an email at charlotte.last@tourismmediagroup.com