Walpole: What does your role entail, and how long have you been doing it?
Eliza Sangster: I started at Beaverbrook Town House on the day that it opened: Wednesday 1st September 2021. Beaverbrook holds quintessentially British charm, Japanese allure and Lord Beaverbrook's flamboyant spirit in the historic heart of Chelsea. We are a members' club, Japanese restaurant and boutique hotel – the Town House is our London home and sister to the Beaverbrook Estate in Surrey. As Head of Membership & VIP Events, I am responsible for managing the Town House members and Beaverbrook Estate members when they are here with us in London. A vital part of my role is curating our members' events programme which is constantly evolving to meet the needs and wants of our members, while engaging and partnering with the local community. Being part of the Chelsea community is the focal point of the Town House, and we work very closely as a team to integrate this aspect into our membership offerings.
What’s your career background and what makes you passionate about what you do?
I have been in the events industry for 12 years and I have worked in a variety of events roles within different categories across the world. In my earlier years, I planned parties for high-end private and corporate clients in addition to commercial single market events such as art fairs in Australia, and East Asia. I also worked on a number of other large scale annual events, including BBC Countryfile Live. I have always had a passion for bringing people together to enjoy a shared interest.
I get a huge amount of satisfaction and gratitude from successfully delivering events, and exceeding customer expectations is a considerable drive in my day-to-day life. Seeing people happy and learning brings me a so much pleasure and that is why I am passionate in delivering an ever-improving events programme with Beaverbrook.
Can you tell us about a woman who you look up to regarding your work?
Anya Hindmarch. She has successfully created a renowned global brand while raising a large, loving family and pushing the boundaries of sustainability. Just a small impact on our society!
Have you ever faced gender bias within your career – and, if so, what effect did that experience have on you?
Yes, although probably more so in a positive light when I was looking after our members and building relationships with brands. Knowing your goal and being direct is key, however kindness, empathy and being open build and retain stronger relationships. You need to be aware of where the line is.
What’s a significant obstacle for women in your industry or the wider luxury sector that you feel isn’t talked about enough - and why is it important to highlight?
The industry is dominated by women and we are expected to work all hours of the day. This challenge can most certainly be overlooked, as a lot of my work pivotal in running a successful membership is happening behind the scenes, but I must also be on hand at all times for guests and potential new clients. Being a dynamic character for every occasion is vital in the luxury role – you cannot have an off-day. Charm and manners get you further than most business deals.
What advice would you have to other women following your career path that would have helped you when starting out?
There is an array of characters in the luxury world, some desirable and some difficult. Always remember your worth and your characteristics as a women that enable you deliver what is required. Remember to check in with: What am I learning? Am I developing new skills? How am I making myself better every day? These will allow you to keep track of how you are developing as a person and whether it is serving your goals both in your career and lifestyle.
What does success look like to you?
Being able to uphold a work-life balance, being happy at home and in the office is vital indication of success to me.
