Working in an exclusive London Private Club…

50 Shades of Hospitality

Claude Achaume has been working as the private rooms manager for the exclusive 5 Hertford Street Private Club in London for several years and in this podcast, he shares his experiences and some interesting anecdotes that have made headlines! Claude describes how his years at the iconic Connaught Hotel in London shaped his sense of hospitality and taught him the importance of discretion and tactfulness.

While working at the Connaught, Claude met actors, royalty, celebrities and politicians and he describes some of his most memorable moments. He tells our listeners why the Connaught was unique and highly appreciated by its guests.

After the Connaught, Claude moved on to the London Ritz where he continued his Food and Beverage career there until 1991. It was Mr. Julian Payne, the former manager at the London Ritz and a much-appreciated mentor, who introduced Claude to the London private club scene and gave him the opportunity to start working for them.

Claude shares his hospitality acumen, his values and why he hasn’t considered retirement as of yet. As a Frenchman living in England for many years, Claude tells us why he appreciates London and why he decided to come back from France after working eight years at the Château de la Pioline in Aix en Provence. Claude also tells us why it’s no longer easy to find experienced and dedicated staff and how he has seen the hospitality field struggle, change and evolve.

We also ask Claude to share his ideas on how the private club niche is just one of the many places young people can aspire to work and what skills are needed for this kind of employment.

Finally, Claude talks about how 5 Hertford Street Private Club welcomed guests as part of the Coronation of Charles celebration in May of this year. Understanding royal protocol is just one of the many reasons why Claude is a very popular, admired and treasured hospitality expert.