Episode 6 - Alasdair Hooper - Boutique GM
Send us a textAlasdair Hopper went from shy teenager to being viewed by millions on the BBC, this would not of happened had it not been his love of hospitality.His first passion of photography led him to get a degree, during this time he worked in various areas of hospitality to "enjoy the wine", this was the catalyst that gave him the drive to pursue a career in a leading front of house role.One of his first jobs would be in the trendy hangout - The Old Firehouse pub in Exeter, the bar was f...
Alasdair Hopper went from shy teenager to being viewed by millions on the BBC, this would not of happened had it not been his love of hospitality.
His first passion of photography led him to get a degree, during this time he worked in various areas of hospitality to "enjoy the wine", this was the catalyst that gave him the drive to pursue a career in a leading front of house role.
One of his first jobs would be in the trendy hangout - The Old Firehouse pub in Exeter, the bar was full every night, crowded, loud, full of people who wanted to be seen, this is where he learnt to deal with the fast pace and long hours - https://www.oldfirehouseexeter.co.uk
His second stint would see him working for a major international chain - Pizza Express, having already learnt the fast pace, gruelling hours, it was here that he really understood the importance of engaging with his customers, which led to a promotion - https://www.pizzaexpress.com
A few years of experience under his belt, Alasdair had the opportunity to be featured on a a prime time BBC Two television show called " The Restaurant "- https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00djpzy/episodes/guide
This was the X-Factor equivalent of a competition, that would see one team get the opportunity to win a restaurant with the one and only chef Raymond Blanc OBE - https://www.raymondblanc.com
Despite being a runner up, Raymond saw the potential and gave him the opportunity to work in one of the best 2 star Michelin restaurants in the world, a place where 40 chefs have earned their own Michelin stars after graduating, the legendary Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons - https://www.belmond.com/hotels/europe/uk/oxfordshire/belmond-le-manoir-aux-quat-saisons/
This is the very best of the hospitality industry, Alasdair spent the first 3 months under an intense internship, that would see him work in all areas of the hotel, finally ending up in the incredible dining room.
The BBC came back for a second time, however with a slight twist, his own television 6 part series, being thrown on the deep end of high end catering. The ultimate test for an industry professional - https://vimeo.com/43028353
A few years later after settling down and a 4 year hiatus from the trade, he began to miss the hustle and bustle of restaurant life, un-expectantly a chance to work in a small boutique hotel in his local town of Dartmouth, England appeared.
Bayards Cove is 7 bedroom boutique hotel, steeped in history, being amongst one of the oldest hotels in the region. https://www.bayardscoveinn.co.uk
Now general manager Alasdair spends a lot of time with his team and customers alike, having learnt from the best, the focus now remains on growing an already successful business.
Not bad a for shy guy!
You can find him on - https://twitter.com/AlasdairHooper
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