Acorn winners 2012 – Ben Woodward
Age 25
Position Front office manager, Lucknam Park hotel & spa, Colerne
Nominator Claire Randall
Proudest career moment The most recent is having been promoted to front office manager at Lucknam Park. Working here has given me the opportunity to be exposed to every aspect of the business.
Greatest inspiration My family - particularly my grandad, whose work ethics have stuck with me. As a result, I always do my best with the task at hand, work hard and enjoy what I'm doing.
Ambition I hope to learn all I can within the industry before I look for a business of my own. I will always look to operate within the five-star sector and particularly enjoy the feeling of inviting guests into your own home that you get from a property such as Lucknam Park.
Ben Woodward's passion for hospitality was kindled in 2004 when he worked at a country pub. It inspired him to take a degree in hospitality business development, during which a 15-month industry placement at Chewton Glen hotel gave him experience across all hotel operations. After graduating, Ben continued to work at Chewton Glen, helping the ICT department to introduce a new property management system.
He moved to Lucknam Park in 2010 as assistant manager. This newly created position enabled him to introduce many improvements in guest care and sales-related areas. After less than two years, Ben was promoted to front office manager, with the remit to drive forward service, income and staff management. He is responsible for a team of 15, plus £2m in room revenue.