myCareer profile
Robert Carlson
Director of Operations
The Climbing Hangar
Robert Carlson has worked in the hospitality industry for more than 17 years. He has recently transitioned into the leisure sector, after joining The Climbing Hangar as its director of Operations.
Tell us about your career
I began my career in hospitality, working as a bartender in a cocktail bar, before taking on my first managerial role, of two independent gastropubs in Twickenham. In 2008 I began working as a deputy general manager at Ping Pong, a restaurant group serving Dim Sum and cocktails. I was promoted to general manager, then multi-site general manager, before becoming operations manager, and, finally, head of Operations. During my time with the company I gained an ILM award in Leadership & Management and an NVQ in Restaurant Management.
Why did you want to work in the leisure industry?
The leisure sector is an exciting, thriving industry that will only continue to grow. It combines my passion for hospitality with a new challenge that will enable me to expand my horizons and knowledge. It's an industry that I have always followed closely, and one that I'm thrilled to finally be a part of.
What are your goals?
Personally, I want to grow as a leader within the leisure sector and continue to build on my skills and experience in a new industry.
I want to build a culture that empowers the front line teams, allowing them to have autonomy to express their creative sides, as well as drive our business forward and provide the best possible customer experience. My aim is to make the Climbing Hangar a rewarding and exciting place to work, by creating a philosophy that nurtures and develops talent from within.
I want to transform the Climbing Hangar into the market leader for UK indoor climbing. I want to create an environment that is enticing for our customers, with a focus on food and beverage to make us stand out as a place not only to enjoy climbing but to engage with each other in a social atmosphere with a unique offering.
The leisure sector is an exciting, thriving industry that will only continue to grow
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