As the Hilton Park Lane celebrates its 60th Anniversary, we are honored to take the time to recognize some of the outstanding Team Members from this property who are celebrating tenures of over 25 years! "I truly feel like I'm part of the Hilton family,” says Concierge Assistant Lee Simmons, recounting his 27 years at The Hilton London Park Lane.
This historic property has seen many changes over 60 years, and these Team Members have witnessed it all. Laundry Operative, Victoria, has spent 46 years at the Park Lane Hilton and remembers when they ironed everything by hand, including tablecloths, napkins, and linen! Keep reading to learn more about two Park Lane Team Members, Anthony, Executive Head Chef, and Filipe, Events Manager, as they share memories during their tenure at Hilton, why they have stayed, and all the changes they have experienced.
Meet Anthony and Filipe
Filipe is one of the Hilton London Park Lane’s longest-serving staff members, having started working as a dinner waiter at London Hilton on Park Lane in 1967. Filipe has been a room-service waiter, head waiter, luggage porter, night concierge, clerk, and even retired once before we asked him to return! He is currently the Events Manager and is crucial to the operation at The Hilton London Park Lane. In his role, he manages a large team and arranges thousands of unique events and functions annually.
Anthony has dedicated his 32 years at the Hilton London Park Lane to this property’s amazing people and beautiful restaurants. He loves working with his fantastic team at a supportive company where he experiences exciting events and befriends guests. Anthony is thankful to Hilton for trusting him to become a manager early in his career, which was an opportunity that encouraged him to use his creativity to develop himself, his teams, and the Food & Beverage program at the hotel!
Filipe Setting up an Event
Why These Team Members Love Working at Hilton
Filipe: “The most rewarding aspect of being part of #TeamHilton is being part of a team that provides excellence in the hospitality industry. I have worked with people from all over the world during my career, which has broadened my horizons and allowed me a glimpse into distinct cultures. This is reflected in my work with the clients and helps me improve my intercultural skills, which I use daily.”
“Being part of a fantastic team drives you to do better, and that is the spirit of #TeamHilton because teamwork is always better than individual effort. This hotel has allowed me to acquire and develop the skills and competencies to grow professionally and personally. If a workplace challenges you to improve, it is a team to stay with. I have been lucky to have worked with people who are driven and enthusiastic about their work.”
Anthony: “The best part is working for a global company with the best benefits and being on a team of great people. I have thoroughly enjoyed working for the company and the people at the hotel while being allowed to experience some fantastic momentous events and meet many of our special guests, some of whom have become friends.”
Memorable Experiences at the Hilton London Park Lane
Filipe: “It is challenging to choose one memorable experience or interaction as I have had the privilege of being able to wait on many famous and influential people. These include British Royalty, UK Prime Ministers, US Presidents, actors, music icons, and football players.”
Anthony: “An extraordinary memory was being the Olympic flagship hotel in 2012. I also had the chance to put on a presidential dinner, an event for British Royalty, and a boxing event for famous athletes!”
Changes Over the Years
Filipe: “The center of Hilton’s mission is to set itself apart from the competition and provide excellent customer service – a home away from home. Hilton has successfully kept up with current trends and demands in the hospitality industry and has consistently turned our vision and mission into an everyday practice.”
Anthony: “As a chef, an exciting change that has happened over the years is customer expectations surrounding dietary requirements. Vegan and vegetarian requests have significantly increased, as well as allergies and restrictions.”
Anthony Creating a Festive Sandwich
The Key to a Long Successful Career
Filipe: “To be successful in the hospitality industry, you need organization, the ability to multitask, and excellent communication skills. I am a people person who always goes out of my way to ensure that everyone has the help and support they need – this applies to both customers and Team Members. You also need to be a good role model and help co-workers progress in their careers by challenging them, pushing them to be the best they can be, and helping them achieve their goals. Each person’s success is the team's success and, therefore, the success of the London Hilton on Park Lane.”
Anthony: “Being adaptable and hardworking has made me successful throughout my career, but the most essential quality has been being a good team leader. Keeping everyone happy, motivated, and excited to come to work makes an immense difference in the Hilton London Park Lane environment.”
