This week’s Time Traveller, sponsored by Harp Wallen, is Paul Kerr, CEO of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
What was your first job in travel?
I began with a career in accountancy, however I’ve long had a passion for the luxury market which ended up leading me away from accountancy and into the hotel business! I enjoyed accountancy but I always thought that the ideal career would be combining accountancy skills with my passion for the luxury hotel business. I then became financial director of Cunard Hotels & Resorts, looking after properties including the Ritz Hotel in London and Dukes Hotel, prior to my current position at SLH.
What has been the high point of your career?
My proudest moment professionally was when SLH hit 500 hotels, over US$100,000,000 revenue and over 100,000 club members. We started with only 60 hotels back in 1991 and only US$2,000,000 revenue.
Who or what has been the greatest influence on your career?
Michael Pikard, who was one of the few Chartered Accountants in the hospitality industry. He encouraged me to keep going and get qualified as a Chartered Accountant and to never give up. This has turned out to be a great bit of advice.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
Hopefully I’ll still be able to do an hour session in the gym, followed by a game of squash.
What would you be doing now if you weren’t in travel?
I would still be working within the luxury industry however perhaps more with yachts than with hotels as sailing is one of my great passions.
