Rhiannon Thomas is the Assistant Manager and the Sales, Marketing and Events Manager at The Dartmouth Hotel, Golf and Spa. Located just a few minutes’ drive from the popular naval town of Dartmouth, this meeting and conference venue offers outstanding facilities in a beautiful countryside setting.
We’ve caught up with Rhiannon to learn more about her role at
The Dartmouth Hotel, Golf and Spa.
How long have you worked at the hotel?
I’ve worked for the Dartmouth Hotel for six years, starting in 2017 as a Trainee Assistant PGA Golf Professional whilst undertaking my golf coach training with the Professional Golfers Association and becoming a fully qualified PGA Professional in March 2020. In the same year, I also started the Management Trainee Program written and based at the hotel. This saw me working in all departments, including Reception, Accounts, Housekeeping, Greenkeeping, Food and Beverage, Kitchen and Spa. On completion, I started my new role as Assistant Manager in January 2023. This is when I also became the Sales, Marketing and Event Manager for the hotel.
What does your job involve?
Day to day, my job can vary. I head up all social media channels, manage and run any outsourced marketing, plan marketing emails, meet with clients, conduct show rounds for events, plan and run the events, and help in other departments when needed.
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
Most challenging is knowing when to switch off and leave work at work.
What’s been the best advice given to you?
Never stop seeking to improve, learn and grow within the industry. And to plan, think it through and seek advice when needed. We are always learning I’m lucky to be surrounded by other heads of departments who have a great deal of experience in the hospitality industry.
What’s the best part of your job? And least favourite?
I love all aspects of my job. I enjoy challenges, and meeting deadlines and each day is different, which keeps the job exciting and interesting. My least favourite part… Has to be making beds!
What’s your favourite dish on the menu at the moment?
The hanging kebabs or the Mussels, it’s a tough choice! We are lucky that we get fresh Seafood delivery straight from the boats in Brixham daily!
What are the catering options for delegates?
Depending on how the day is planned, we can offer tea and coffee throughout the day with either pastries or biscuits. For lunch, we have three options, for a buffet lunch and if they wish to stay for an evening meal, they can enjoy a bite to eat in our Bar and Bistro and order from the evening or bar menu.
Do you have a favourite meeting or event room and why?
I love both our meeting and event rooms! They are spacious with lots of natural daylight,
but the highlight for me is the sun terrace. On a sunny and clear day, you are able to see across to Torquay. The views and scenery we’re surrounded by is breathtaking.
What’s been the most memorable event held at your venues?
I haven’t been in the events role for long, but we hosted a St. Austell golf day, it was a fantastic day with lots going on. I remember the busy morning of getting all the sponsors onto the course for the players to meet during their round and then the evening being a fun, entertaining and enjoyed by all.
What can a 24-hr delegate do in their down-time?
They’re able to use the Spa facilities we have on-site, which consist of a Sauna, Steam room, Jacuzzi and Pool. We also have treatment rooms, so if they wish, they can relax with a massage or facial. They can also hire golf clubs and play on either one of our golf courses at a reduced rate.
What do you do in your down-time?
In my down-time I enjoy going out walking. There are so many beautiful walks, you’re spoiled for choice! I also love playing golf and seeing my friends and family.
Why should an event organiser pick your venues?
An event organiser should pick The Dartmouth Hotel as we aim to cater for all needs. We are out of the city, so it’s ideal as it gets delegates out and away from the office. The rooms are spacious with Wifi, breakout space and a sun terrace where they can enjoy lunch.
