Beyond the Lobby x Elena Karpechenko

Welcome to Beyond the Lobby, where we delve into the inspiring stories and insights from leaders in the hospitality industry. Today, we are thrilled to feature Elena Karpechenko, a distinguished figure whose impressive career spans top-tier establishments like The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott. Currently at the helm of the historic Lord Nelson Hotel, Elena combines a passion for tradition with a forward-thinking approach to hospitality. In this interview, she shares her philosophy on leadership, the invaluable lessons from her journey, and her vision for the future of luxury hotel management. 

You've led teams in multiple high-profile hotel settings, including The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott. How do you approach leadership and team development, particularly in the dynamic environment of a luxury hotel?My leadership style can be described with the quote by Erin Hanson; “There is freedom waiting for you, On the breezes of the sky, And you ask "What if I fall?" Oh but my darling, What if you fly?” I encourage the team to be creative in any decision without fear of making a mistake. We learn and grow through trial and error. I actively seek their involvement and contribution, ensuring that they feel valued and heard. At the heart of extraordinary experiences you’ll always find people passionate about what they do.

You've moved from a solid background in event management to managing an entire hotel. What experiences helped prepare you for your role as General Manager? As an event manager, mastering the art of adaptability and quick thinking is paramount, alongside a deep understanding of various policies and procedures across different domains. The dynamic nature of event management, coupled with its inherent unpredictability, has been instrumental in shaping me into a more effective leader, honing my skills in risk management and strategic decision-making.

The Lord Nelson Hotel is known for its rich history. How do you balance maintaining its historic charm with modern expectations in hospitality? Balancing the Lord Nelson Hotel’s illustrious history with contemporary hospitality standards requires a meticulous approach. We've carefully preserved iconic and historical features, to maintain a distinctive ambiance of elegance. Every aspect, from our curated decor to our attentive service, reflects our dedication to providing guests with an experience that seamlessly merges our storied past with modern convenience. Restorations have seamlessly integrated modern amenities, enhancing comfort and convenience without sacrificing the hotel's character. Furthermore, we place the utmost value on hearing and incorporating guest feedback to uphold our commitment to serving excellence.

What is your vision for the future of the Lord Nelson Hotel? Our vision is focused on continually enriching the guest experience. We aspire to maintain our status as a preferred destination while fostering deeper connections with our visitors, community, and team members. We remain dedicated to enhancing guest satisfaction by leveraging new technology along with thoughtful enhancements that seamlessly blend with our historic surroundings.

What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to leadership roles in the hospitality or business sectors? Never doubt that you can achieve greatness. Hospitality is the most rewarding industry as you get to be part of life’s most meaningful journeys. Be curious and seek experiences yourself as a guest to understand the travelers and their needs better.

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