Q: Lockhart, you started with Carimar Beach Club in September last year, how would you describe Carimar Beach Club to your friends?
A: In my eyes, Carimar can be described as the ultimate authentic Anguillian experience. From the timeless design of the property to the warm welcome and unpretentious engagement of the staff, Carimar creates a nostalgic environment and if you are not careful, you will easily find yourself returning over and over again.
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your background, the different stages of your career in the hospitality industry before joining Carimar Beach Club?
A: My introduction to hospitality came via Sonesta Beach Resort at the tender age of 18 and then I moved on to Cap Juluca, where I spent 16 years in various management positions. Prior to joining Carimar, I was on the Executive Team at Aurora Resort and Golf Club as the Director of Rooms Division. During my tenure, I was privileged to have the opportunities to work overseas in countries like UK, Jamaica and USA.
Q: After working mainly in the luxurious five-star segment in Anguilla, what was your motivation to accept your new position with Carimar?
A: When I understood that Carimar was looking for an Assistant GM, I saw it as an opportunity to learn more about “the charming escapes” segment of Anguilla and based on history, Carimar has been known to be the leading property in the segment.
Q: What aspects of hospitality work appeal to you the most?
A: During my journey, I have always been interested in learning more about different cultures and norms and my work allows this. Whether it’s through conversations with guests or traveling for work purposes or even researching new concepts, the industry gives you the opportunity to learn on an international level.
Q: What do you think are the biggest assets of Carimar Beach Club?
A: Without a doubt, the biggest asset of Carimar Beach Club is definitely the staff!
Q: Where in the future you see Carimar Beach Club major challenges and where will be room to improve over the coming years?
A: With Anguilla becoming more and more popular and Mead’s Bay beach emerging as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, I can foresee a challenge in Carimar keeping its identity, as a peaceful, serene and tranquil small property. Although things are very well kept, I do see some opportunities where we can improvement the grounds around Carimar and increase our renewable energy production to become a zero emissions property
Q: Can you share with us some of your favorite restaurants on our island?
A: This is a very tough question, as I don’t think you can have a bad meal in Anguilla but if I must choose, I would go with Sharky’s, D’Richard’s, Hibernia and Uchu.
Q: What future trends do you think might affect the hospitality industry in the Caribbean?
A: Lack of Inter-Caribbean travel is an area of concern for the future. Having the ability to visit several islands on one vacation is our competitive advantage but the recent issues with different regional airlines continue to impact airlift.