Walpole: What does your role entail, and how long have you been doing it?
Eugenio Pirri: My role is all about our legendary people and protecting our culture. This means that I will continue to shape the direction of Dorchester Collection to best serve the needs of our employees, guests and owners. As a role model for our core values and brand experiences, we encourage continuous growth and innovation by supporting the highest levels of employee and guest engagement. I have worked within the Hospitality Industry for the past 30-plus years and within Dorchester Collection for the past 12 years.
What’s your career background and what makes you passionate about what you do?
I began my hotel career when I was 18 years old, first as a room attendant (cleaner) as well as an on-call banquet event server. I did this while completing my studies in hospitality and tourism. Over the next 30 years, I worked my way through various departments and divisions – more than 18 roles, four divisions, eight hotels and seven countries. During this time, I learned many things and grew my career in the process, with a major focus in people and culture, before moving into operations over the past few years.
How has your sexuality and/or gender identity been a source of strength on your journey into your sector?
I have always believed that you must be yourself and, in the past, have been quoted as saying ‘do your job like you’re not afraid to lose it’. This means not being someone else and showing all of you. I am a proud gay man and this has given me confidence through the years and an innate ability to read people and situations ensuring comfort and a sense of belonging.
Have you ever faced negativity towards your sexual orientation within your career – and, if so, what effect did that experience have on you?
I personally have not faced this situation. I believe there is always a common ground that can be found. It is difficult at times for some people to accept others, but we all have the power to educate and provide knowledge to others. In the world today, this is a must.
Do you think attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community have shifted in your time in the industry?
Yes, I do. That said, I think it’s a pendulum that swings back and forth, to the benefit and detriment of our community. Our role is to continue to share our stories and be a positive influence wherever and whenever we can be.
What’s a significant obstacle for members of the LGBTQ+ community in the workplace that you feel isn’t talked about enough - and why is it important to highlight?
I believe we need to share more stories and backgrounds. This is where the magic happens and where people truly understand who we are and why representation is important. It is not enough to simply celebrate – we must educate and communicate our past, present and future, as part of workplace cultures. The fabric of our working communities is diverse and unique – this is the brilliance of culture and only once these stories are shared and understood, can they then be properly celebrated.
Is there any policy work that needs doing to evolve and ensure workplaces are more inclusive to LGBTQ+ people?
I have always believed that policies can be too prescriptive. In essence, it is important to provide guidelines that cover all aspects of human rights and the protected statuses. How we operate our workplaces determines the respect and importance we place on these guidelines. Policies should ensure how items are operationalised are done correctly, but how things are lived in the workplace should be the main driver.
Is there a person in your industry or sector from the LGBTQ+ community who inspires you or has helped you on your journey?
I am continuously inspired by so many people from our industry: Linda Riley, Publisher of Diva magazine; writer and director Jake Graff; Suki Sandhu, the founder of diversity and inclusion consultancy Involve; strategic advisor Krishna Omkar; and Fabrice Houdart, Executive Director of the Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors. They have all given me inspiration, guidance, support and friendship over many years and I am forever grateful to them.
What career advice do you have for younger members of the LGBTQ+ community who are entering your industry?
Take risks – don’t be afraid to have a voice and be who you are. Align yourself to a company that shares your values and has purpose to better the world, along with their organisation.
What does Pride in the workplace mean to you?
Pride is being proud of who you are and what you believe in. It’s about allowing people to bring their best selves to work and life, whatever that may be. Pride is about accepting people and respecting them in the workplace and elsewhere.
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