An Insight in to working life at Sandy Lane, Barbados
Customer Relationship Manager, Michelle Babb, has been at the prestigious Sandy Lane in Barbados for over 30 years. Having worked through the ranks from Room Service Telephonist to Customer Relationship Manager, Michelle is often the face of Sandy Lane that guests remember long after they have arrived home. We checked-in with Michelle to ask a few questions.
Q:How has Sandy Lane changed in the 30 years you’ve worked there?
A: Modern technology means I am never away from the office even when I am not physically there. Guests now reach out to send requests via Facebook, text, whatsapp,etc. Technical enhancements in the rooms and suites mean that guests do not have to move from their bed to open the curtains or adjust the room temperature. The hotel, although in the same footprint of the old Sandy Lane, is even more beautiful with a range of facilities that include a breath-taking spa, four restaurants and seven bars and two additional golf courses. The Treehouse Club which was previously just a room is now second to none with a huge facility for children.
Q:Are you ever daunted by the famous guests that stay at Sandy Lane? Is there anyone you would love to meet that you haven’t already?
A: All of my guests are treated equally with the same privacy and attention to detail that is expected at Sandy Lane. I have seen many famous faces during my years, but I have never been daunted. The one person that I would love to meet is Barack Obama.
Q: What would you recommend that guests try, at least once, when staying at Sandy Lane?
A: I highly recommend our sumptuous Sunday brunch. With so many delectable dishes and desserts, they would not know which one to try first.
Q: Do you have a favourite memory from working at Sandy Lane?
A: It is really very hard to pick one but working with some fantastic managers over the years has helped mould me into the great hotelier I am today. Even though these managers have moved on, our relationships have remained close.
Q: How do you think Sandy Lane maintains its incredible reputation as one of the best hotels in the world?
A: Sandy Lane maintains its incredible reputation by the warmth of its Barbadian hospitality. I have travelled extensively throughout my career and I can truly say that nowhere else will you find the friendliness and sincerity of a Bajan that is proud to serve. In addition, the constant updates to the physical structure and improvements, keep the hotel at the forefront of elegance.
Q: Describe a typical ‘day at the office’
A: It starts with an early morning briefing with the Heads of Departments, followed with a departmental briefing with my team and various meetings throughout the day. Other functions include management of all Christmas bookings and handling all Platinum Pink guests alongside meet and greet with guests and any special requests that include reservations for the spa, golf and restaurants. This is just the tip of the iceberg!
