Four seasons' frontman wins award

Markus Mormels has only been working at the Four Seasons Hotel for a matter of months, but his charm and dedication allowed him to triumph at the UK leg of the competition.
The 23-year-old Mudchute, Isle of Dogs, resident saw off tough competition from 32 other receptionists working in the luxury hotel business. And he is now set to represent his five-star Westferry Circus venue - not to mention the country - in the international finals in Dubai.
Markus said: "I was really surprised to win the competition as I have only been working here for a few months. But I have a real passion for this job. I'm hoping to make the Four Seasons Hotel proud of me when I go to Dubai next year."
The contest is organised by the Amicale Internationale des Chefs de Reception et Sous Directeurs des Grands Hotels (AICR), which was founded in France in 1964 and has developed into an international fellowship in more than 12 countries.
The British leg saw Markus, originally from Costa Rica, interviewed by a top panel of judges from across the industry, before taking part in roleplays to see how he would handle difficult and irate guests.
And it was not merely Markus' cool head that impressed the experts. He knows the industry inside out, as his German father worked in hospitality, and he recently gained an honours degree in business and administration while studying in the US. Not to mention the fact he speaks four languages.
And the secret to a being good receptionist? "You have to be patient.
And have good listening skills, so you know what the guests are wanting from their stay and can anticipate what they need. For instance, when they are reserving a room, finding out if it's a family booking and if so you can then find out the age of the children, so you can have toys in the room."
Looks like guests at the Four Seasons can expect the ultimate warm welcome.
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