Interview with Les Walsh

I worked in Cork Airport for 11 years. When I came across a job vacancy for a concierge position at the Fota Ireland Resort in County Cork, I decided to give it a go, since I always enjoyed interacting with the public, and engaging with people. I was lucky enough to get the job at the time. A few years later, I went to college as a mature student, and studied Business and Tourism for two years. After that, I re-joined Fota for five years. I worked four more years as concierge, and one as night manager.

I joined Cliff House Hotel in 2021 as a day porter. Then, Patrick Shields, our Joint Managing Director, saw some potential in me, and asked if I would like to go for Head Concierge. So, we had a chat about my new role, where I would also be assisting porters – but the main focus was to look after the guests – everything from their restaurant bookings, to their transport, and more.

I always wanted to become a member of Les Clefs d’Or Ireland, but there were a few stumbling blocks along the way. I began the process while I was at Fota, and secured two sponsors. After I joined Cliff House Hotel, I told Patrick that I was in the process of becoming a member, and he was kind enough to write me a letter of recommendation. Once that was done, the rest, as they say, is history!

The main part I enjoy, of course, is interacting with the guests. We meet so many people from different parts of the world. We come across various nationalities, and individuals from all walks of life. Whether you’re a millionaire or working class, my theory is that everybody is the same, and deserves to be treated with respect and kindness. When I look after a guest, I look after them the same way I’d like to be taken care of when I am in a hotel.

There was an American couple that came here last year, and they were here for three nights. I looked after them throughout the length of their stay. I organised tours, restaurant bookings, and also showed them around Cliff Beach House, because they were curious about the property. They were so thankful that when I mentioned my desire to join the Les Clefs d’Or, they offered to write me a reference letter! That, I’d say, is one memory that will always be special.

I would say, definitely try it! If you’re a people person, and like working as part of a team, it’s certainly for you. If you have ideas, and are innovative, it’s a great place to be. There are plenty of stepping stones that will help you work your way up, so yes, don’t hesitate to give it a go.

I would say that since COVID, a lot of people have been more appreciative of what we actually have in Ireland. I myself went and visited places that I didn’t even know existed in Ireland. I think that we’re now in a space where locals value what they have in their own countries a lot more than they did before. And there’s so much history here – that’s why people from other parts of the world like to visit Ireland. Also, the welcomes you get in Irish hotels are really special. I think these are the little and big things that really keep the industry going.

When you first start a new position, it can be very daunting. You don’t know anything, you don’t know anybody. But on my first day, that wasn’t the case. Everyone was very welcoming, they smiled a lot. They were more than happy to show me around – and so, it was incredibly easy to integrate into the team and become a part of the family.

When I am not working, I am on the tennis court. I play tennis around three to five times a week. I enter into competitions too – as and when I can.

My mother was born in Crosshaven, in Cork. She used to take me down there every year to visit my grandparents, since I was six weeks old. We used to spend our summers down there in the beach, and it was marvellous. I’d say, that’s my most cherished holiday memory.