Westward Shipping News is sharing a spotlight on Plymouth’s Waterfront business leaders and owners, who will be giving their views, perspectives, and insights on the future of Britain’s Ocean City.
In the second of the series, our next spotlight interview is with Stephanie Lewis, Regional Sales Manager, at Moxy Plymouth, and one of 32 Marriott Bonvoy brands, and is managed by fast-growing European operator Hotel Co 51.
Born at Freedom Fields Hospital in Plymouth, which closed in 1998, she was educated at Notre Dame School and went on to the University of Plymouth to complete the BSc (Hons) Hospitality Management Course.
Stephanie began her career at the Grosvenor Hotel on The Hoe, and was soon taking on other key roles roles at the Holiday Inn, Jury’s Inn, and Events Manager at the Crowne Plaza for over 5 years.
She is the Regional Sales Manager at the city’s newest Hotel; Moxy Plymouth, which opened its doors last Summer in Millbay, and opposite the gateway to Millbay Docks and Brittany Ferries.
Stephanie has two children, lives in Plymouth, and is passionate about the waterfront city, especially the renaissance of the communities in Stonehouse, Millbay, and linking the areas into the regeneration of the town centre.
Q&As
How does your day begin?
Depending on what city I wake up in, it can start with the school run before arriving at my desk to check reports from the night before, and then usually a day of meetings, planning, appointments, etc.
What does it mean to be an effective business leader in the changing world of the hospitality sector?
Definitely resilience. The hospitality landscape and the booking habits of both guests and companies has completely changed since the pandemic, with guests needing further assurance and adaptability for change. You need to evolve with the sector.
How do you see the renaissance of the Millbay area of the city?
Our new hotel is embracing the exciting culture and communities in Millbay and Stonehouse, and plans to be part of the vision and future ambitions for the area as a true neighbour.
What makes the Moxy Hotel different from its competitors?
Moxy is a lifestyle brand – we want guests to be able to enjoy the comforts of home. This could be our 50-inch Chrome cast televisions that allow Netflix, our 24-hour gym facilities and Superfast Wi-Fi.
Our onsite car parking and 24-hour bar with complimentary cocktails on check in to ensure guests can be themselves until they check out.
What are the biggest challenges you face?
New hotels need consistent visibility – we continue to work on ensuring everyone knows that Marriott Bonvoy has landed in the Ocean City!
What are your plans for moving forward?
To support our local community and continue on the momentum we’ve created.
If you had any business advice, what would it be?
Be truthful in your actions and what you are selling – any successful business relies on its customers believing in you.
What do you love most about Plymouth?
While Plymouth continues to grow in size, it maintains a village community which has made the city a great place to grow up, work, and raise my family.
Main picture: Moxy Hotel
