Interview with Gemma Watts
Robert Savage meets Gemma Watts – a lovely lady who’s a program director at the Hospitality Skills Academy and most importantly, a lady who know a lot about kick starting your career – whether you’re away from home or not.
Would you rather go for a summer swim in the Hull Estuary or a winter dip off the Orkney Islands?
Summer swim – I love the sun, even if it is Hull!
Describe the Hospitality Skills Academy in 15 words or less?
Promoting excellent learning opportunities in hospitality and making this excellence more accessible.
And now tell us about it in as many words as you like.
We shine a light on the very best learning opportunities the hospitality industry has to offer making it easier for you to make choices. No matter what stage of your career, when it comes to customer service courses, fine tuning your leadership and management or perfecting your culinary skills - if you see our logo you can be assured it is the very best.
We have been working with the Disney Institute to provide their training to UK Managers. We have created a World class customer service training course and are running a huge Smiles of Britain campaign to get the UK smiling more!
How can the academy help young travellers passing through the UK?
One of the aims of the National Skills Academy is to help change the perception of the UK, making it a more welcoming place for visitors. We would therefore hope young travellers to the UK have an experience that is full of smiles and that they get to enjoy the World Class Customer Service.
Who would you most like to erase from pop paparazzi history (for the benefit of mankind) and why?
Cliff Richard - then I wouldn’t need to keep buying my mum the calendar each year, forever more!
You’ve interviewed a lot of famous people for you online series – which sets out to inspire and encourage. Who was the best subject?
Our inspirational leaders have all been fascinating. They’ve all re-iterated that despite what people think, there are amazing careers available within the hospitality industry – offering both glamour and travel.
The most entertaining?
I am not just saying this but it really was fascinating meeting with Keith Knowles, Managing Director of Beds and Bars. Throughout his business life Keith has found inspiration through sport and he has an amazing ability the two together. One thing he said to me was: “What’s the point of a boat? To go forwards. We try and make all our managers skippers of their own businesses.” I love it!
And the worst?
They are all amazing!
What was your favourite album of 2009?
Beyoncé, I Am ... Sasha Fierce. I saw the concert too and it was amazing.
Where would you most like to tick off your travel, to do list?
Dubai and Thailand but as soon as these are done, there will be more. I love travelling
And finally, which words of wisdom always serve to inspire you?
Having worked for Disney I will always like the quote: “It was all started by a mouse.” If a mouse can do it, I can do it!
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