Kate Oliver – iNsingizi Lodge and Spa

kate_oliver

What is the name of your business and what is your role? I am the marketing and general manager of iNsingizi Lodge and Spa

Describe your business in two sentances. We are an intimate spa, as well as a conference and wedding venue specializing  in making our guests feel totally relaxed and pampered. Our functions are all intended to reflect our guests personalities while they enjoy the occasion, fully confident that we will see to the detail.

How long have you been in business? iNsingizi Lodge and Spa has been in operation for about 14 years but has changed and grown over that time to what it is now. We haven’t stopped growing and changing yet and are building 4 new rooms having just completed our chapel – which overlooks a gorgeous little dam.

How did you get into this business? I have been in various forms of the hospitality industry for as long as I can remember and found myself at iNsingizi 3 years ago, after I was phoned and asked if I knew any one suitable for the position! After listening to what they were looking for I decided I was the perfect person! I applied and as they say the rest is history!! I have to say it was one of the best decisions I have ever made and everyday I realize how lucky I am to live and work in such an amazing part of the country

What makes you go to work in the morning? There are so many reasons to get up in the morning, esp when you are woken by guinea fowls or rock pigeons outside your bedroom window. Everyday is different and for me the people I meet make it exciting – you never know who is going to cross your path and what interesting things you can learn. I work with amazing people who make me laugh and when I am away marketing the business I am totally calm knowing that everything is under control at the lodge and the guests are receiving awesome care.

What is your favourite part of your work day? My days are so varied that to pick one time is tricky but I think it comes back to people and spending time getting to know new people and seeing them enjoy iNsingizi as much as we do. It is a special place and being able to share it makes each day wonderful

Your secret to business success is? Attention to detail is important and making your guests feel really special and cared for. Ensuring your staff are happy will also ensure your guests are happy and have the best time

What is your business goal for 2013? Our goal at iNsingizi this year and every year is to ensure the best experience for our guests and to grow the business on a monthly basis. This can only be achieved by ensure no little thing is overlooked – it is the little things that people remember.

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