Through the Lobby with Emma from Shangri-La
Goho’s ‘Through The Lobby’ series aims the spotlight at some of our favourite hotels, gaining a sneaky insight into some of the very best events venues the world has to offer.
On the menu today is the luxurious Shangri-La Group.
The Shangri-La group manages a host of luxury hotels and resorts spanning key locations around the world. Spanning from level 34 to 52 of The Shard, architectural icon and Western Europe’s tallest building, guests at London’s Shangri-La can connect to the whole city through panoramic skyline views overlooking the River Thames.
We are delighted to share a bit more about Shangri-La and their London-based Sales Executive Emma Xu in our interview below.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your role?
My name is Emma Xu and I have been with Shangri-La Group for over eight years, working in the London global sales office for four years. My role focuses on managing UK based MICE clients and driving business from the UK market into over 100 hotels and resorts in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, North America, Indian Ocean and Europe. I am excited that we will add Shangri-La Hotel, Jeddah soon to our portfolio of amazing properties.
Originally from Nanjing, China, I studied and lived in Tokyo before moving to London in 2015. I love travelling around the world, meeting new people and I have a passion for cooking. I’m always sharing recipes of new dishes for my colleagues to try!
What makes your hotel/ hotel group so special?
Guided by its mission of service from the heart, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is iconic for its distinctive Asian hospitality and luxurious accommodations that honour the art of hospitality while embracing local culture. Through imaginative and nature-inspired design, delightful culinary and cultural experiences, its authentic and thoughtful service, and its dynamic destinations and properties, the brand enables guests to realise their own moments of Shangri-La.
What is the best event that you have hosted?
In February 2020, we hosted a Southeast Asian-inspired MICE sales showcase event at Shangri La Hotel, At The Shard, London. The featured traditional Fijian dancers, beautiful floral displays, palms trees, delicious regional food and cocktails by the Sky Pool, the highest hotel pool in Western Europe. The lovely ambiance paired with jaw-dropping views across London allowed for an inspired event for our hotel teams from Turkey, Sri Lanka, Oman, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore & the Philippines to connect with UK event planners.
What do you think makes a good event?
No matter how beautiful or stunning a location or venue is, it is always the service that really makes the difference. At Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, we make it our mission to offer attentive, personalised service from the heart, with precise execution.
What events are most suited to your hotels?
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts hosts diversified meetings and celebrations to suit every guest’s and group’s needs. From large-scale celebrates and unique destination events to sophisticated business meetings and eco-friendly Meetings with More, our hotels and resorts are well-equipped to meet the needs of all customers. One of my favourite events was the 26th Annual Bal des Débutantes, which was held at the Shangri-La Hotel, Paris in November 2019. The designer gowns were simply stunning set against the backdrop of our historic hotel, located in what was once Prince Roland Bonaparte’s Parisian residence in the 16th arrondissement, with unrivalled views of the Eiffel Tower.
What plans and safety measures have you put in place to welcome guests and event bookings at your venues?
As always, guests and colleagues’ health and safety is of the utmost priority. The COVID-19 pandemic has required us to raise our already demanding hygiene standards with new protocols, procedures, and training to prepare for the new normal. Shangri-La Group introduced the “Shangri-La Cares” commitment which elevates our already rigorous hygiene and safety protocols for all properties worldwide. The “Shangri-La Cares” reinforces our commitment to guests.
Shangri-La has followed recommendations laid out by the World Health Organization or more stringent local directives where appropriate, to ensure its operational protocols are comprehensive. We are supported by our long-time partner, Diversey, a leading global hygiene solutions provider who has a century of experience and expertise in this field, to ensure our implementation is comprehensive and rigorous with the evolving situation.
Throughout the entire customer journey, we have concrete measures in place to give our guests complete peace of mind:
Increased frequency and full attention to deep cleaning of all high-touch surfaces and areas used by guests throughout the hotels;
Use of medical grade sanitisers and disinfectants which are approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency;
Increased cleaning frequency of air filters and air-conditioner systems to ensure optimal air quality;
Safe dining, meetings and events with extra precautions to respect physical distancing and enhanced food safety practices.
Ensure a safe working environment for colleagues returning to work, with on-going training provided to uphold the latest health guidelines from local authorities and WHO.
Describe your hotel group in 3 words?
Luxurious, Authentic, Engaging
What do you love most about working for this hotel group?
The group has an inclusive and caring culture which can be found across the whole organisation. I feel valued and empowered by the company. It has been an incredible journey, and one in which I continue to learn and grow. I also really enjoy working with the team in the UK and in our hotels around the world, as we always collaborate and help each other.
Want to know more about the Shangri-La Group or Emma herself?
Visit Emma’s LinkedIn Profile or visit the Shangri-La website.
Would you like to host an event, physical or hybrid, at the Shangri-La?
