The Dorchester

“Woaaaaaaaah, we’re halfway there…..woah-ohhhhhh, cheesecake or poached pear?” 🍐 The countdown is officially on! In six months, our flagship fundraising event, Who’s Cooking Dinner? will return to The Dorchester for its 26th year. We’re putting together a stellar line up of world-class chefs, so watch this space! 👀 Missed out last year and keen to get in on the action? Tables are now available. Email philanthropy@leukaemiauk.org.uk to find out more and secure your seats. 📅 Save the date: Monday 15th September 2025 #WhosCookingDinner #TheDorchester #LeukaemiaUK #CharityEvent #CharityFundraiser

Continuing celebrating women of Dorchester Collection, today with Liina Pakkats from The Dorchester #IWD Tell us about your current role and what led you here. I currently work as an Assistant Director of Food & Beverage at The Dorchester. I actually have a long history with the company and spent over a decade in various roles in our hotels building my career. When I was looking to return to hospitality post pandemic and there was an opportunity to join back at The Dorchester, it was not a hard choice. What challenges have you experienced as a woman in your role, and how have you overcome them? There have been many over the years. From being considered ‘emotional’ as a woman, to having to earn respect as a leader, which for male counterparts was naturally given. There’s also the usual assumption from people as a woman of holding a lesser job/title and when explained, receiving a response of surprise and explanation of “how it is a big job”. It has always been important to me to stay your authentic self and not to try to emulate others. Find your own leadership style but staying consistent, fair and kind has always a good practice. What advice would you give to a woman starting their career? Don’t’ be scared to take chances and be open to different opportunities. Life is not always linear and taking a role in a different department or an area that you originally did not think would be your kind of thing, are the areas I have grown, learnt and enjoyed the most. Who is your role model and why? I have been lucky enough to work with many strong and inspirational women in executive leadership in our company. They have taught me a lot over the years and been great mentors. Being able to watch how they navigate challenges as well as coaching me through mine, has been vital getting me to where I am now.   #BelongToTheLegend #WhyWeCare #CreateYourLegacy

Lights. Camera, Action Introducing our latest Legend under the Spotlight, Aikaterini Mitrou, Advanced Spa Therapist at The Dorchester. With dedication, perseverance, and a passion for wellness, she has grown within the company, delivering exceptional experiences to guests while continuously striving for excellence in her field. Aikaterini was inspired to join The Dorchester because of its reputation as one of the best and most unique hotels in London. Having always worked in five-star hotels, she knew that The Dorchester was the perfect place to integrate her skills and continue her professional journey in luxury hospitality. Over the past five years, Aikaterini’s role has evolved significantly. She started as a Spa Attendant, before progressing to Spa Therapist in less than a year. Through hard work and dedication, she achieved another milestone last October when she was promoted to Advanced Spa Therapist. Her journey is a testament to her commitment to personal and professional growth. One of Aikaterini’s proudest accomplishments has been her involvement in the spa’s masterclasses. She finds great joy in these sessions, where she speaks about the brand, explains treatments, and provides expert advice on using products at home. What makes these experiences truly rewarding for her is seeing the smiles of satisfied guests and welcoming them back to the spa time and time again. The diverse culture at The Dorchester has played a key role in shaping Aikaterini’s experience. Working alongside colleagues from different backgrounds has helped her learn how to adapt to various personalities and cultures. This understanding has been invaluable in anticipating and meeting guest needs, as well as in fostering teamwork by offering quick and effective solutions. Looking to the future, Aikaterini aspires to step into a management role. She is committed to improving herself every day, learning more, and giving back to her department. As a therapist, she consistently pushes beyond her goals and remains determined to take her career to the next level. For those just starting their journey, Aikaterini offers some invaluable advice - stay positive, always wear a smile, and remember that as a team member at The Dorchester, you are the face of the hotel. Your attitude and dedication define the guest experience, so embrace every challenge with confidence and pride. Join us in celebrating Aikaterini’s remarkable journey and contributions. If her story inspires you, consider becoming part of something legendary. Apply through the link below! https://lnkd.in/ejV6iTaj Teresa O'Farrell Sarah Openshaw [Alt text: A women in a navy uniform is smiling in front of a floral backdrop. She has dark hair tied in a neat bun and is in a professional setting.]

Looking back on last week, we are proud to have wrapped up our inspiring three-part series, celebrating the incredible women of The Dorchester. Hearing our female colleagues share what they love most about working in hospitality was a powerful reminder of the passion, dedication, and energy that make this industry so special. From creating unforgettable guest experiences to embracing the dynamic nature of hospitality, their enthusiasm is truly inspiring. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who shared their stories - your contributions continue to shape the legendary experience we deliver every day. #LegendaryWomen #HospitalityPassion #Belongtothelegend #IWD Dorchester Collection The Dorchester 45 Park Lane Luca Virgilio Vincent Michael McGrath Paul Joseph McDonald MSc

Last week, we proudly celebrated International Women’s Day at The Dorchester, honouring the legendary women who make our hotels extraordinary. This year’s theme, Accelerate Action, reminded us of the importance of driving progress, uplifting one another, and celebrating the women who inspire us every day. Our female colleagues shared their icons - those who have shaped their journeys and continue to motivate them. A heartfelt thank you to all who participated and to the women leading the way in hospitality! #IWD #AccelerateAction #LegendaryWomen Dorchester Collection The Dorchester 45 Park Lane Paul Joseph McDonald MSc Luca Virgilio Vincent Michael McGrath

Last week, we had the pleasure of celebrating International Women’s Week at The Dorchester, highlighting the incredible women who make our hotels exceptional. Our female colleagues shared their top tips for success, offering valuable insights and inspiration for the next generation of hospitality professionals. A huge thank you to everyone who took part - your passion and expertise continue to shape our legendary teams! #InternationalWeek #WomenWhoLead #belongtothelegend Dorchester Collection The Dorchester 45 Park Lane Paul Joseph McDonald MSc Luca Virgilio Vincent Michael McGrath

Happy #IWD! Today we're excited to bring you an interview with Marie Lacaze. Tell us about your current role and what led you here. Over three years ago, I embarked on a new path in my career from F&B Manager at Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester to Area Project Manager at Dorchester Collection. In my different F&B roles, I was involved in two restaurant openings and at The Dorchester, the soft refurbishment in 2019 of the 3 Michelin star restaurant, Alain Ducasse. I loved every minute of it, and have truly enjoyed working along different designers, architects, consultants, artisans, artists, and contractors in making a space truly special, unique and with incredible attention to detail. In my current role, I have been instrumental in directing and executing renovation and restoration project at the 3 UK properties that harmonize functionality with luxury. Each project comes with its challenges but this is what makes my role fulfilling, interesting and rewarding. I am also lucky to work along very competent, professional, knowledgeable and passionate people which concur to make each project a success. What challenges have you experienced as a woman in your role, and how have you overcome them? The construction industry is one of the most male-dominated sectors in the UK, with reports showing women make up only 15% of the construction workforce. Similar statistics can be found in the design and creative industry and even more true in leadership roles. These statistics never deterred me and to the contrary it does encourage me to be better and better every day and to empower women to not hold back on their dreams. I believe, growing respect will come from by having the right knowledge, understand the processes and technicalities, being hands-on, efficient and confident. You may be faced sometimes with some forms of sexism at different level and I believe this comes from not being used to see women in higher leadership roles, on a building site and unconscious biais that need to be broken down. In my personal experience, it has not been, luckily, really an issue. I would also strongly encourage anyone to be thirsty of learning new skills, new subjects and making a habit of it. These last 3 years I have passed my Prince 2 certification and Construction project management certificate with the support of Dorchester Collection. I have also been trained on different software used commonly in this industry such as AutoCad and SketchUp. These have reinforced my skills and my abilities which help with confidence and maitrise. Who is your role model and why? I won’t be able to name only one as there are so many. Several women in my personal life, in the past history and current have inspired and empower me to be bold, challenge preconceptions, be passionate and pursue my dreams. Just to name a few incredible role models: Marie Curie, Simone Veil, Simone de Beauvoir, Emmeline Pankhurst, Nancy Grace Roman, Andrea M. Ghez, #BelongToTheLegend

The first of many! Our Learning & Development Lead, in collaboration with our Director of Sales and Area Performance Improvement Manager, delivered an insightful Arabic Cultural Awareness Training for our employees at The Dorchester and 45 Park Lane. With a fantastic turnout, attendees deepened their understanding of Arabic traditions, hospitality, and etiquette -while also experiencing the flavours of authentic Arabic cuisine. A truly enriching session, setting the stage for more cultural learning to come! #Culturalawareness #ArabicCulture #LearningAndDevelopment #belongtothelegend #TheDorchester #45parklane3d

January promotions at The Dorchester. Please join us in congratulating our legendary employees! #peopleofthedorchester #thedorchester #dorchestercollection #promotions #employeerecognition #luxuryhospitality #careerprogression #celebrations

Lights, Camera, Action Introducing our latest Legend under the Spotlight, Denise Elisei, Head Bartender at The Dorchester. Over the past seven years, she has built a career shaped by passion, precision, and creativity, contributing to the hotel’s world-class reputation. Denise was drawn to The Dorchester for its excellence in luxury hospitality. She aspired to work in an environment where attention to detail and guest experience are paramount. The chance to collaborate with industry leaders and be part of a team setting the standard for world-class service motivated her to join. Her journey began as a bar waitress before stepping behind the bar as a bartender. Her dedication and talent led to promotions-first to Senior Bartender and ultimately to Head Bartender. Each step has strengthened her expertise and ability to thrive in a high-standard, fast-paced environment. Among her achievements, Denise is particularly proud of "The Vesper," a signature interpretation of the classic Vesper Martini. After months of meticulous research and countless tastings, it became the bar’s best-selling cocktail since its launch-one she hopes will remain a staple for years to come. The Dorchester’s culture has shaped her into both a better bartender and hospitality professional. The emphasis on excellence, teamwork, and attention to detail continuously pushes her to refine her craft and exceed guest expectations. More importantly, the hotel fosters a supportive and inspiring work environment. Denise finds joy in the perfect blend of tradition, creativity, and guest interaction. The hotel’s diverse clientele, from loyal regulars to international jet setters, each brings unique stories. Personalizing drinks and creating unforgettable moments make her role deeply rewarding. For those starting at The Vesper Bar, Denise advises embracing the challenge with passion and dedication. The high standards may seem overwhelming, but curiosity, asking questions, and absorbing knowledge will ensure success. Patience and a willingness to grow are key - The Vesper Bar is a place where tradition meets innovation, offering an incredibly rewarding experience. Join us in celebrating Denise’s journey and contributions. If her story inspires you, consider becoming part of something legendary. Apply through the link below! https://lnkd.in/djT8GHuJ [Alt Text: a portrait of a woman wearing a blue vest and tie, smiling behind a bar with a cocktail glass in front of her. The background features a well stocked bar with various bottles.]