My Event World - Andrew Swindells

Andrew Swindells, general manager of Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, reveals his event world ahead of the hotel's highly anticipated soft launch tomorrow (4 February).

Andrew Swindells
Andrew Swindells

I got into this industry because I studied hotel management at college. Part of that was six months of practical work at Gleneagles Golf Resort in Perthshire. I really enjoyed my time there and decided then that a career in hospitality would be the right direction.

I have worked here since August 2008.

I was attracted to this particular role because to open this size of hotel in this country is exceptional. With the quality of the proposition and the location that we have at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, I didn't want to miss such an excellent opportunity.

Not many people know that early in my career I was a country pub landlord.

If there is one thing I've learnt it's that the only way you can be successful is to have a great team.

If I could do it all over again I would have turned up for my piano lessons and have continued to play.

The one thing I can't stand is indecision.

Outside of work I spend my time with my family.

If money were no object I would buy my own helicopter and learn to fly it.

The recession has meant that Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts' philosophy of offering great value for money is even more important today than it was 18 months ago.

The next 12 months will be one of the most challenging times in my career and potentially the most rewarding.

If I could switch places with anyone in the industry it would be no one because I think I've got the best job in the industry.

If I ruled the event industry I would have a compulsory national certification that measures facilities, both for quality and service.

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