Walpole: In a world where we’re always available, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
Stuart Geddes: I guess you don’t really ever switch off, however at The Lanesborough I am incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by a wonderful team who I trust and are empowered to make the best decisions.
What’s one thing you do after the work day to help you unwind?
I know it’s very cliché, but you really can’t beat a good gym session.
What activity do you do in your time away from the office that helps you relax and recentre after a stressful week?
It's the simple pleasures in life: spending time with family and friends.
What’s something you’ve read, listened to or seen in your spare time that’s helped you at work?
I recently read the Chimp Paradox by Professor Steve Peters. I found it profoundly interesting and very relatable to work place relationship dynamics.
After home and the office, where’s your favourite third space?
I haven’t got a particular favourite third space. I tend to mix my week up with the odd dinner local to The Lanesborough, a bit of exercise and being outdoors as much as possible.
On Sunday night, how do you prepare yourself for the week ahead?
For me, Sundays are about enjoying the end of the weekend, making sure I am fully rested and ready to start another busy week ahead. I love a good Sunday roast, a local favourite is The Harwood Arms in Fulham. The team there are so engaging and friendly and the food is consistently fantastic.
Best reason you've had to turn your Out of Office on recently?
It’s not often I switch my Out of Office on, however when I am travelling home to Australia with a big time zone difference, it is nice to switch off for a few days to spend quality time with friends and family.
Your go-to Out of Office outfit: I am most comfortable in jeans and a jumper, but if I’m on my bicycle, I'll be dressed head-to-toe in lycra.
Your happy place anywhere in the world: My happy place is southern Africa. It was where I was born and I love it for the wildlife, the scenery and the fond memories.
Your favourite bar or restaurant: I love a little place in Wandsworth called Flotsam & Jestam Café. They make a fantastic Eggs Royale – perfect for a weekend breakfast.
Something you booked recently that you'd recommend: I recently went to see Witness for the Prosecution at County Hall in London. It's an Agatha Christie play staged in the old Council chambers, which adds the unique feeling of being in a court room. Well worth a visit!
A hobby you'd like to cultivate: I’d love to improve my golf game, which always seems to border on the terrible!
A luxury that’s actually a necessity: A well-tailored suit.
Best luxury under £25: Taking a black cab across town on a rainy day.
