Been looking at hotel jobs thinking, “Oooh, that’s a bit of me…”? Imagine having the chance to hang out in gorgeous hotel lobbies on the daily – and getting paid for it! 

Well, imagine no longer. Because here at Lightning hospitality jobs are our jam. Whether you’re a career hotelier or looking to make the hop from another industry, we can help you forge the hospitality career of your dreams.

Want to know more about the industry? Read on to find out why The Zetter Marylebone’s Eljesa Saciri, Dorchester Collection’s Jane Grammer, and Park Hyatt London River Thames’ Melissa Brette love working in hospitality, what they think makes it different to other industries, and their best advice for candidates coming in fresh.

Eljesa Saciri (she/her), General Manager of The Zetter Marylebone

Why do you love working in travel and hospitality?

Our industry thrives on dynamism, going beyond mere business operations. It provides a platform to hone not just operational and commercial skills, but also offers profound insights into global trends and diverse cultures. In hospitality, we specialise in transforming ordinary moments into memories for our guests, whether they're travellers seeking new adventures or locals enjoying a night out. By being a part of this vibrant industry, individuals gain invaluable exposure to global trends, lessons, and cross-cultural learnings, enriching both personal and professional growth.

What makes it different to other industries?

Hospitality stands out for its steadfast commitment to curating unforgettable guest experiences. Its hallmark is personalised service, where every interaction is geared towards forging enduring emotional bonds.

At our core are the dedicated individuals who breathe life into the industry. Employees lean on interpersonal skills, communication, and empathy to cater to the varied needs of our guests. With a global reach, we welcome visitors from diverse cultures, underscoring the need for cultural sensitivity and adaptability.

To flourish, hospitality embraces innovation, seamlessly blending new technologies and trends to exceed evolving consumer expectations while preserving our signature personal touch.

What’s your advice for candidates who are new to the industry?

 Never stop asking questions, allow your curiosity to leave no stone unturned. The only way to progress is to persevere.

Jane Grammer (she/her), Belonging and Employee Wellbeing Manager at Dorchester Collection

Why do you love working in travel and hospitality? 

Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of travelling the world – and I’ve now been lucky enough to have lived and backpacked in several countries across the globe. What allured me to travel was my curiosity and thirst to learn about different cultures, traditions, and the people who live them. 

That same curiosity is what drew me to work in travel and hospitality. The industry naturally attracts people from all walks of life who have a shared fascination with the world and people. This curiosity comes from a place of seeking to understand, so it fosters a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can be their authentic selves. It facilitates connections and enriching relationships that genuinely make you feel you’re part of a family.

What makes it different to other industries? 

For me, it’s the relationships and connections you make. When you’re in the hospitality industry, you’re in the business of connecting with people and making them feel cared for. The industry naturally attracts those who are friendly, welcoming to new people and good at meeting the unique needs of guests, clients and customers. 

This also translates to their colleagues and teams. That’s why you feel like you’re part of a family – you form these deep connections and relationships with people who become friends for life. Hospitality is wonderfully rewarding, but it can definitely be tough at times. There’s something about getting through a tough shift that creates these strong bonds that bring you closer to your colleagues.  

What’s your advice for candidates who are new to the industry? 

Hospitality is a very accessible industry in that you don’t need a degree to start your career – or even become a CEO. One of our very own CEOs at Dorchester Collection started their career in hospitality as a housekeeper when they were 15! 

If you take advantage of the many opportunities for growth and learning and have passion, motivation and determination, you’ll open the doors to an exciting and fulfilling career.  

Mélissa Brette Ogée (she/her), Director of Human Resources at Park Hyatt London River Thames

Why do you love working in travel and hospitality?

It might sound cliché but, without hesitation, it’s the people. You get to work with such a diverse group of experts from different backgrounds and cultures – it’s fulfilling and humbling.

I think travel and hospitality requires a certain mindset and lifestyle – people who choose this life automatically have something in common. There’s no routine in our jobs, so people embrace change and enjoy uncertainty.

With two flight-attendant parents, I was born into a family who transmitted this mindset to me. Maybe that’s why I find myself wanting to work with others who also share this mindset.

What makes it different to other industries?

What makes the job interesting is the people you work with, the experience they share with you, and how you make it part of your knowledge. Creating experiences that make others happy is what we all have in common, and I always feel it’s a very privileged environment to work in.

What’s your advice for candidates who are new to the industry?

Enjoy each chapter of your hospitality journey and stay open to learning opportunities. There are so many different paths available, so be ready to take risks and get out of your comfort zone – it’s the only way to grow.

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Reckon travel and hospitality could be the industry for you? Get in touch for help finding your next role.

Already working in travel and hospitality, but not sure where to take your career next? Book a 1:1 60 minute video chat with our CEO Thea Bardot for tailored career advice to help you figure out your future, including a CV + LinkedIN personal brand review. Thea runs these sessions EVERY weekend in return for donations to her gender affirming surgery gofundme.

Or maybe you’re looking for candidates for a role in your business? We can help you find the right fit.

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And lastly our founder Thea Bardot is trying to raise £25,000 by October '25 for their gender affirming healthcare and it would be so amazing if you are able to contribute to support. You can donate here. 

Or send us an email on: office@lightningtravelrecruitment.com if your business would be able to support by booking Thea for a trans inclusivity talk in return for a corporate donation, key upcoming trans dates are:

🏳️‍⚧️ International Pronouns Day - 19th October 
🏳️‍⚧️ Transgender Awareness Week - 13-19th November
🏳️‍⚧️ Transgender day of Rememberance - 20th November

Thea has delivered trans inclusion talks to the likes of Pret A Manger, Docusign, Yougov and Pan Pacific Hotel and One Hotel Aldwych to name a few and is one of LinkedIn's top LGBTQ+ content creators as a verified influencer on the platform.