Chloe Lupson

Chloe has worked at Harbour Hotels for over five years, her journey in hospitality beginning in 2014 as a receptionist at Harbour Hotel Salcombe. Chloe returned as Guest Relations Manager and was later promoted to Operations Manager. Chloe has kindly presented her career story, along with some brilliant advice for aspiring women in the industry. 

How long have you worked for Harbour Hotels?

"All in all, I have worked for Harbour Hotels for over five years. starting in 2014 as a Receptionist for two years, and returning in 2021 as Guest Relations Manager, followed by a promotion to Operations Manager just over a year later."

What are your main roles and responsibilities?

"I oversee all day-to-day operations at the hotel across all departments, ensuring all standards are being met and encouraging tip-top levels of service. I will also deputise for the General Manager in his absence, and be on hand to assist and support any department or team member as and when required."

What do you enjoy most about your role?

"The people! I really enjoy meeting and getting to know our guests who come from all walks of life. Delivering the very best guest experience, from booking to departure, and receiving feedback and praise for the hotel and team - there is nothing more satisfying."

What has been a highlight of your time working for Harbour Hotels?

"The main highlight for me has been watching the team develop and grow within their roles. I enjoy providing training and mentorship for individuals in more junior positions, and championing hospitality as their career of choice."

Have you ever had a mentor or someone who inspired you in your career?

"There have been many people over the years who I’ve been lucky enough to work with who have inspired, encouraged and taught me so much. I’ve learnt to be open-minded and empathetic to other team members work and management styles, and take inspiration from them in order to understand what works for me. These individuals have been General Managers, heads of departments and colleagues throughout my career - all of whom I have learnt from and been encouraged by."

How has your career progressed at Harbour Hotels?

"Harbour have always been very supportive and encouraging with my career progression - returning to the hotel in 2021 as Guest Relations Manager, and then receiving a promotion to Operations Manager just over a year later. I have no doubt that the company will continue to support me with my career progression in the years to come."

What was your first role in hospitality?

"My first role was as a Receptionist here at Harbour Hotel Salcombe, over ten years ago. This was a great starting point as it opened my eyes as to what a challenging yet rewarding a career in hospitality could be. It gave me a solid foundation on which to build my skills and knowledge, and cemented my career aspiration to grow within this industry."

What is the biggest challenge within your role?

"Hospitality can be unpredictable and you never know what challenge the day may bring. Whether it be an unforeseen maintenance issue, a tricky or delicate guest situation, or unexpected change in staffing levels, it is important to stay calm and rational, and work with your team to overcome and resolve any issues for the day."

Do you have any advice for women aspiring to your role or to work in hospitality?

"My advice would be to stay open minded, empathetic and approachable. Actively seek mentorship and embrace any learning opportunities that may present themselves to you. Every day is a school day, and the best way to progress within this industry is gaining experience and learning as you go."

What are your future career aspirations?

"In time, I would like to take the next step to Deputy General Manager or General Manager. I will always stay open minded to other opportunities within hospitality, whether that be operational, or in a supportive role."

How do you think we can accelerate action this International Women’s Day?

"In order to achieve full gender parity, I believe stereotypes need to be challenged. Women should be encouraged to pursue their goals and ambitions, and this can only be done by providing a stable, fair and nourishing environment for them to learn and grow."

Return to read more profiles of inspiring leaders at Harbour Hotels.