Success Story Series #4: Ann, Event & Guest Relations Manager

February 6, 2024

Our dedicated employees are the driving force behind our success. From the meticulous planners to the welcoming receptionists, the talented kitchen staff, the hardworking cleaning crew, and the efficient operation, finance, and logistics teams, every single member of our team goes above and beyond to preserve the legacy of The Brewery. It's time we bring attention to the remarkable individuals who make our organisation what it is today.

This month, let's shine a well-deserved spotlight on Ann, Event & Guest Relations Manager.

Hello Ann! To begin, could you share a bit about your background?

I’ve always been in the hospitality industry, starting my career in hotels before venturing into running a boutique for clothes and fabrics. This led me to travel around the world, sourcing clothing from places like Hong Kong, Bangkok, South Korea, Zurich, and Austria. Fashion has always been a passion of mine, and I believe in the power of a well put together wardrobe.

Outside of work, I enjoy researching fashion trends, visiting shops, strolling around the high-street for inspiration, and ensuring I keep up with the latest fashion and colour trends.

How long have you been working at The Brewery, and could you share your journey within the company?

I've been with The Brewery for 26 years now. What initially piqued my interest was its ownership by Marriott back then and a structure similar to hotels, which seemed like a good match for my experience. I started as a part-time waitress on a casual basis, a role that offered flexibility around sourcing clothes for the boutique. As I found my rhythm, I realised I was enjoying the role and decided it was what I wanted to pursue. That's when I began event management training. Over the years, I progressed from Waitress to Junior Event Manager, to Event Manager, and eventually to my current role as the Event & Guest Relations Manager.

I'm a bit of a perfectionist and very organised, traits that I believe played a part in my progression within the company. It's been a rewarding journey witnessing both the team and The Brewery grow over the years.

Congratulations on your promotion! Could you tell us more about your new role and what it entails?

In my new role, I still run some events, particularly for regular clients and weddings. However, my focus has shifted towards customer service, making clients happy and ensuring smooth reception operations. I manage the reception space, greet clients, and oversee the reception staff, working closely with Chris, the reception supervisor. Often, I am the event contact and manager in the morning for clients. Although I manage fewer events, I’m always available to assist the operations team during busy periods, such as Christmas. The transition feels quite natural for me, as I always assisted on reception before and liked my time there. It's a change of pace, but I'm enjoying the different responsibilities and the opportunity to talk to various people.

Can you share some examples of exciting events you've worked on in the past?

I've been fortunate to be a part of many corporate events like Bamboo and the Fragrance Foundation Awards. However, I have a special fondness for Perrys weddings. Each one is unique, and working with Sue, Errol, Sophia and Tony feels like working with family. I have been working with Perrys for around 20 years now, so I know them very well. I plan my holidays around these events to ensure I can be there, and it's incredibly rewarding to have clients and Perrys specifically request me for their events.

Can you share a fulfilling moment within the company that you are proud of?

The most fulfilling moments for me are receiving positive feedback from clients and having them request me for future events. The thank you at the end of the day makes everything worthwhile.

How would you describe the culture at The Brewery?

The Brewery has been like a second home to me for years. During tough personal times, the support from The Brewery has been unwavering. The culture here is one of a can-do attitude, positivity, and a big happy family.

Finally, what are you most looking forward to in the coming months?

I'm excited to see what the new summer offering, The Retreat, looks like. Continuing in my new role, making changes, and improving things behind the reception are also on the agenda.