Checking In Podcast by Hotel Owner: January recap

What hoteliers can learn from the latest podcast episodes: Heritage, security, and ownership mindset
As supporters of Hotel Owner’s Checking in podcast, we’re committed to amplifying the conversations that genuinely matter to hoteliers today.
From protecting the heritage and identity of an iconic brand, preparing for new safety legislation, to strengthening long-term leadership, each conversation offers practical insights for modern hoteliers.
Let’s dive in.
Inside The Savoy: Where heritage meets innovation
In this episode, Franck Arnold, Managing Director of The Savoy, reflects on his international career in luxury hospitality and how these experiences inform his leadership of one of the world’s best‑known luxury hotels.
He explains how The Savoy honours its history while continually adapting to modern guest expectations. Franck also reflects on the challenges of steering a flagship property through the COVID-19 period, and outlines the importance of delivering guest experiences that feel personal, sustainable and commercially sound.
Key takeaways from the episode:
- Innovation works best when it elevates a hotel’s heritage rather than replacing it
- Luxury hospitality continues to rely on highly personalised service that recognises the individual needs of guests
- Long-term success requires a balance of profitability, inclusivity and sustainability
Mastering Martyn’s Law with Howden
This episode focuses on the upcoming Martyn’s Law legislation and what it means for the hospitality sector. Michael Flynn, Client Director at Howden, and Paul Davidson, Director at Team 9 and former Special Advisor (Terrorism) to the UK Government, explain the responsibilities hotels will face as the law comes into effect in 2027.
They outline the security tiers that are introduced under Martyn’s Law, risk assessment requirements, staff training obligations, and insurance considerations. They also offer guidance on how operators can filter through complex information without becoming overwhelmed and stress the importance of beginning preparations early.
Key takeaways
- All hotels need to understand their security tier and complete a venue specific risk assessment
- Staff training must reflect the actual environment of the property and cannot rely on generic guidance
- Early planning supports legal compliance, operational readiness, and long term guest confidence

Thinking like an owner with Richard Ellison of 7 Hospitality Management
In this episode, Richard Ellison, CEO of 7 Hospitality Management, shares his early professional lessons from both independent and branded hotels. He discusses his experience leading operations at Gleneagles during the G8 Summit, and how these formative experiences influence his leadership today.
Richard explains how 7H builds trust by adopting an ownership mindset and highlights the importance of clarity, communication, and a strong operational roadmap in creating long-lasting relationships and sustainable performance.
Key takeaways
- Thinking like an owner helps leaders build trusted, long-term relationships with both teams and partners
- Clarity and structured planning are essential for guiding teams through a hotel’s full lifecycle
- Experience in both branded and independent properties strengthens a leader’s ability to adapt to diverse operational environments

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