Team Stories
Role: From Guest Service Apprentice to Head of Reception
Jess Goodwin
Nationality: British
Employment dates: September 2022 to date
Jess emailed the hotel directly enquiring about apprenticeships. At her interview it was quite apparent that Jess had all of the qualities that we look for when recruiting new team members. She was enthusiastic, interested, she had done her research on the hotel and displayed a natural willingness to learn and help.
Jess exceeded our expectations and recently became our Head Receptionist. She is extremely well liked and respected by all, and we are very lucky to have her in our team
We asked Jess to to tell us about her journey with us so far and where she would like to be in 2 years time?
My journey has been crazy in the best way! I've learnt so many new things with the support of everyone around me. I feel like my confidence has grown so much and I feel so happy with the journey I have had so far. In the next 2 years my aim is to keep growing my confidence and knowledge of the industry.
I enjoy working at the Marsham Court because I get to meet so many new guests but also because of the team. I do truly feel as though we are one big family.
I've learnt that its ok to be the quiet person. I was always worried about not being the loudest person in the room, but I have learnt that it doesn't matter. You just have to have confidence in yourself and your abilities and with support from others, you will achieve."
Role: Food & Beverage Assistant/Receptionist
HAYLEY SIMPSON
Nationality: South African
Employment dates: March 2024 - October 2024 & February 2025 to date
Hayley joined the team as a Food & Beverage Assistant in 2024 to gain more experience in the hospitality industry. She wanted to develop her customer service skills and learn new ones whilst working in a hotel environment.
Hayley was an extremely hard worker right from the beginning. She was always very enthusiastic and had a “thirst ” for learning, learnt her duties quickly and to a high standard.
A team player from the start, she was liked and respected by her managers, colleagues and loved by the guests.
When a role for Receptionist became available early in 2025 - our Head of Team Recruitment and Development, Simon Scarborough, contacted Hayley as he felt that she would be a great asset if she were to return to the hotel. Hayley didn't have any Reception experience but was really keen to learn and she didn't hesitate to return. We asked Hayley what she most enjoys about working at the Marsham Court and she told us:-
The staff are definitely a selling point for me. We are like a big family and share good times and laughs. We support each other to keep the energy high and the hotel running well. If you want to learn new skills and gain experience in other departments the Directors are always willing to assist wherever possible and I always feel like there is someone here to listen and assist in any way possible.
Role:Room Attendant to Head Housekeeper
FILIP PIJACKI
Nationality: Polish
Employment dates: May 2023 to Date
Filip joined us as a Room Attendant in 2023 and very quickly we could see that he had a dedication and a passion for high standards. He quickly progressed and by the end of his first year with us, he was promoted to a Supervisors role. Filip continued to excel and when the role of Deputy Head Housekeeper became available at the beginning of 2024 - he rose to the challenge and with the help of our Head of Team Development - Simon Scarborough - embarked on the next stage in his career.
A lot of hard work and perseverance followed resulting in Filip being made Head of Housekeeping in April 2025.
We asked Filip how he has been supported to progress since he joined us 2 years ago.
Working at the Marsham Court has given my the opportunity to develop and grow my Managerial skills in a supportive and professional environment. I've been encouraged to take on new challenges, lead with confidence and continuously improve. Being part of a team that values progress and quality service makes my role both meaningful and rewarding.
I'm supported through clear communication, trust from Senior Management and access to training that helps me grow both personally and professionally. There is always someone to turn to for guidance and the encouragement I receive motivates me to lead my team with confidence and care.
Marsham Court is a business where hard work is truly recognised and opportunities for growth are real. If you're motivated, open to learning and enjoy being part of a team that values respect and quality, you will thrive here. It's not just a job - its a chance to build a meaningful career.
Role: Commis Chef to Sous Chef
SILVIA PASSERA
Nationality: Italian
Employment dates: December 2017 to Date
Silvia joined us as a Commis Chef with very limited experience and basic English but what she lacked in initial skills - she made up for with her passion to learn in bucket loads!
Under the guidance of our Head Chef, Silvia has grown in confidence and ability - in both her food knowledge and her ability to manage other members of the team. She is now a highly valued Chef and team player who has become an integral part of the Marsham Court.
We asked Silvia to tell us a little bit about her journey with us.
I really like working at the Marsham Court because it’s such a happy place and the people that work here make you feel so at home. I have always had lots of help and support from the people around me which has helped to improve myself. For anyone considering a career at the Marsham Court – I would just say – always be yourself.
Role: Customer Service Apprenticeship
GREG
Nationality: British
Employment dates: August 2023 to Date
Greg joined us as a Food and Beverage Assistant initially and enjoyed being part of the team so much that he applied for an Apprenticeship which started in July 2024.
He is part of our Front of House Team serving breakfast in the main restaurant and lunch fuctions - which he really enjoys.
We asked Greg to tell us why he likes working for the Marsham Court Hotel?
I really like working at the Marsham Court and feel a real sense of belonging. I have a hidden disability but to them I am just Greg and I feel like a valued member of the team. There is a real family feel amongst the team members and we all look out for each other – the support is great. I love the hotels focus on accessibility and inclusivity. One of the Supervisors is my main support and I always feel she is looking out for me. Other Managers and Directors are also very kind and will offer advice to help me improve. If I need support with my Apprenticeship assignments – its always there. I’ve made friends but all the staff are friendly. I even bump into one of the kitchen porters at the gym.
