Walpole: What does your role entail, and how long have you been doing it?
Emily Nugent: My role as the Head of Group and Events at The Dorchester entails overseeing a dedicated team responsible for orchestrating a diverse range of events hosted at our prestigious hotel. From managing group bookings to organising extravagant affairs, no two days are alike. In my nine years with The Dorchester, I've had the privilege of witnessing and contributing to countless memorable events, from luxury car launches in our ballroom to enchanting children's parties. What sets The Dorchester apart is our unwavering commitment to making the seemingly impossible, possible.
What’s your career background and what makes you passionate about what you do?
Having grown up in the Middle East with a father working in hospitality, pursuing a career in the industry felt like a natural choice. Joining The Dorchester's management graduate scheme marked the beginning of an enriching journey that has spanned various roles within the company. From managing events on the floor to overseeing pop-up restaurants, each occasion has deepened my passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. What excites me most about my role is the opportunity to blend creativity with precision, turning visions into reality for our guests.
My journey in the hospitality industry has been shaped by both practical experience and academic studies in hotel management. Every event presents an opportunity to hone invaluable service skills, including effective communication, teamwork, and time management.
Can you tell us about a woman who you look up to regarding your work?
Within The Dorchester, I've had the privilege of working alongside inspiring women who have shaped my journey, from our dedicated Director of Events, Laura Prentice, to the visionary joint-CEO of Dorchester Collection, Helen Smith. Their leadership and dedication serve as constant sources of inspiration, reminding me of the limitless possibilities within the luxury hospitality sector.
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?
One significant obstacle for women in the luxury sector, albeit not always openly discussed, is the challenge of achieving work-life balance, particularly in demanding roles such as event management. The expectation to juggle professional responsibilities with personal commitments can be daunting. Highlighting this issue is crucial to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment within the industry.
What advice would you have to other women following your career path that would have helped you when starting out?
For women aspiring to pursue a career in events management, my advice would be to identify your passion points and leverage them to carve out your niche within the industry. Aim high and seek opportunities that align with your interests and aspirations. Whether it's luxury hospitality or another sector, a genuine enthusiasm for your chosen path will fuel your journey and open doors to fulfilling opportunities.
What does success look like to you?
Success to me transcends accolades and achievements. It's about the tangible impact we make on the lives of our clients and colleagues. From receiving glowing feedback from satisfied guests to witnessing my team's growth and development, success is measured by the relationships we cultivate and the lasting impressions we create. It's about finding fulfilment in every moment and leaving a legacy of excellence in everything we do.
