Debra Patterson joined The Savoy in 1997 and in this time has overseen the implementation of a diverse range of innovative and creative initiatives to help reduce The Savoy’s environmental impact, attracting national and international industry recognition; notably Virtuoso Best of the Best Award: Sustainable Tourism Leadership Hotel; European Hospitality Awards ‘Green Hotel of the Year’. As Quality Executive, Debra is committed to ensuring sustainability remains a core value at The Savoy and that the standard of excellence and luxurious experience, enjoyed by the guests, is never compromised.
What does it mean to you to be named a Walpole 2020 Power List winner?
It is a huge honour! The Walpole is a wonderful organisation that provides support, lobbying and networking opportunities for the UK’s most prestigious luxury brands. So I’m delighted to have been chosen amongst such an impressive list. It’s a great recognition not just for me, but for the whole team, as custodians of The Savoy, and reflects the pioneering work we have accomplished in the area of environmental responsibility and sustainability; it is important that we are making a difference. This recognition demonstrates that having a clear, proactive plan to continuously improve our work with our supply-chain, waste reduction, energy conservation and our engagement within the community, can work in perfect harmony with delivering superb luxury service.
Why do you think you were named on the List this year?
I imagine it was in part for my work with Walpole, as part of a dynamic group who contributed to the development of Walpole’s Luxury Sustainability Manifesto, launched earlier this year. Together with a team of professionals from all sectors across the luxury industries we collaborated to create a multi-faceted manifesto, highlighting key principles and best practices. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the focus that The Savoy’s leadership team have given to sustainability over more than a decade, so I was delighted to be able to share my experience with such a positive team of like-minded professionals.
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