Jacarandá Connections

Latest news

Meeting People

Mar. 20th, 2020

Meet Stephen Fox, Director of Sales at The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences
 
In times of social distancing we would like to introduce and present to you some of the great people that we work with on a daily basis.
Starting of this series of presentations, meet Stephen Fox, the Director of Sales at The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences. From Peter Crouch podcasts to setting up The Athenaeum’s New York City link – Stephen lets us into his world!

What did you want to be when you were 10?
 
I had no idea. It worried me that I didn’t have a plan, but in hindsight, I didn’t realise that I had plenty of time to change my mind. When I was young I loved being outside and spending time with people – so I knew it would be something related to one of those things.
 
 
What’s your go-to tipple?
 
Right now it’s tea and coffee as I’m on an extended Dry January and enjoying the benefits! Under normal circumstances, it’s usually a Bloody Mary.
 
 
What are you currently listening to?
 
I’m a big fan of podcasts, especially when I’m commuting or walking through London. At the moment I’m listening to That Peter Crouch Podcast and BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs.
 
 
What’s been your highlight since joining the team at The Athenaeum?
 
Setting up a base in New York City was memorable. About 20 years ago we converted a studio apartment in Manhattan into the US sales office for The Athenaeum. This was essentially me, several telephone lines and a fax machine set up alongside a bed. It was exciting and fast-paced – no other independent hotel was doing this at the time – although many followed!
 
 
How do you start your day?
 
Coffee, a run, porridge then a bike ride. All before my working day begins! When I arrive at The Athenaeum, I change into my suit and head for my nearest Nespresso machine.
 
 
The Athenaeum has played host to all manner of stars, but who’s your favourite actor of all time?
 
Robert de Niro is one of my favourites and I love the diversity of films he’s in – from Deerhunter and Meet the Fockers to Raging Bull.
 
 
Suite or Residence?
 
It depends on the occasion. I do like the family residences though – the space is incredibly well designed for adults travelling with little ones.
 
 
If you could invite anyone, who would you ask to join you for a drink at The Bar?
 
A client with a big budget and a desire to try some of The Athenaeum’s famed whisky bottlings or original cocktails!
 
 
Besides The View, what’s your favourite view in London?
 
The Royal Observatory in Greenwich has a spectacular view. It’s also where you can stand on the Prime Meridian of the World – where east meets west. I think it’s something every visitor to London should say they’ve done. Parliament Hill in Hampstead Heath shows off the city skyline perfectly too.
 
 
What’s your spirit animal?
 
Maybe a dog since dogs have a loyal, balanced and ‘bounce-back’ kind of demeanour.

Meeting People