Walpole: What does your role entail, and how long have you been doing it?
Charles Oak: Trying to pinpoint the exact duties of my role would be an exercise in futility – no two hours are the same, let alone two days! I can move from being a guest speaker at one of the many prestigious events hosted at The Londoner to working with my executive team on strategy to rolling up my sleeves (metaphorically speaking of course!) and pitching in in the lobby. My role is to shape what we do, mentor the team in how we do it, and facilitate executing that vision. I joined The Londoner when it was still under construction in 2018, but had worked for Edwardian previously so our history goes way back.
What’s your career background and what makes you passionate about what you do?
I am fortunate enough to have already had a long career in hospitality, over three decades and counting. I have had the great privilege of working in some of the finest hotels in the world such as The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle, The Savoy, Gleneagles, and Hôtel de Crillon in Paris among others. The driving force in every position, in every property, has always been service – to make hospitality work for you as a career choice, you must be passionate about service, about providing an environment where guests can escape the everyday, where they can be the star of the show albeit briefly, making people feel special, its why we are here.
How has your sexuality and/or gender identity been a source of strength on your journey into your sector?
It hasn’t. Not to be dismissive, but I have genuinely found my sexuality to be irrelevant.
Have you ever faced negativity towards your sexual orientation within your career – and, if so, what effect did that experience have on you?
I am very happy to say no. Of course my experience is very London-centric, which has always been a very diverse scene.
Do you think attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community have shifted in your time in the industry?
For me, hospitality has always been a very welcoming and accepting environment, and somewhat ahead of its time in terms of thinking.
Is there a person in your industry or sector from the LGBTQ+ community who inspires you or has helped you on your journey?
My influences are more from the arts, the likes of Matthew Bourne, for example. In terms of mentors within the industry I have been privileged enough to work in many fantastic places with many fantastic people and I draw on those experiences and continue to do so.
What career advice do you have for younger members of the LGBTQ+ community who are entering your industry?
Confidence is key. Be yourself.
What does Pride in the workplace mean to you?
As I have said, I feel hospitality is and has always been a place where there are no labels. We all join this field because we love service and providing memorable experiences for our guests, the focus is external and not internal on the individual. Love yourself, love what you do and act with kindness always.
