Dean Bannon
Director ofÊSales
GrandÊHtel Stockholm
Q:ÊWhat does a day at work consist of for you?
A:ÊI am normally up early around 06h00 out with the dog (itÕs a Golden Retriever called Tim!) and checking emails. As a real wake up I generally bike into the office all year round, no matter what the weather. If I am not travelling somewhere then I always start the day with a morning meeting with the leadership team and the Sales Team to have a chat, catch up on what is happening that day or any other pressing events. The rest of the day will be catching up with customers and partners, spending time with my various teams, attending meetings and reading/researching on all things hotel related.
Q:ÊWhat’s the best part of your job?
A:ÊWhen I feel that I have made a difference and contributed.
Q:ÊDo you have anyone you’ve looked up to?
A:ÊMandela for the tenacity of the human spirit. I also lived in South Africa when he had just become president but unfortunately I never had the chance to meet him.
Q:ÊDo you have any nice traditions at your office?
A:ÊYes, we always have ice cream in the staff canteen on Fridays!
Q:ÊHow long have you been a member of HSMAI?
A:ÊWe joined earlier this year.
Q:ÊWhat do you think is the best thing about HSMAI?
A:ÊI am always looking to develop, learn and network with peers. I was attracted to HSMAI as it covers all the areas I am responsible for in the hotel and has some fantastic members with great experience.
Q:ÊAre there any activities or projects you think HSMAI should start up?
A: As a new member I am not in a position to answer that, but give me timeÉ
Q:ÊDescribe your perfect weekend.
A:ÊRecording a really quick time in a triathlon followed by a long lazy lunch outdoors in a warm climate with friends, family and great food and wine.
Q:ÊIf you were trapped on a desert island, what would you take with you, if you could choose one thing?
A:ÊHmm, thatÕs a hard one – bucket or spade? IÕll go with the spade.
Q:ÊWhat is the title of the book about your life?
A:ÊLove Refuge Ð people always ask me why I ended up in Sweden and thatÕs why.
Q:ÊWhat is your next travel destination?
A:ÊFrance
Q:ÊDo you have any special hobbies?
A:ÊI do a lot of multisport such as triathlon, duathlon and swim-run.
Photo: Dean Bannon, Director of Sales. Grand Htel Stockholm.
