Derek Fenn
I have been in the hospitality industry for nearly 24 years. I have worked in different roles in hotels but found my true passion was in the Concierge World. I am currently Chief Concierge at Palazzo Versace, Gold Coast where I am thoroughly enjoying the Versace experience and environment. Before working at Palazzo Versace in 2007, I was Chief Concierge at the Conrad Treasury in Brisbane for a year.
I have only been is Australia for four years with most of my experience starting in Auckland, New Zealand where I worked as Chief Concierge at the Regent Auckland, Four Seasons, Stamford Plaza, Sky City and Sky City Grand Hotel. I was the founding President of Les Clefs d’Or New Zealand (1994 – 2005) which I am truly proud of and have met so many wonderful people along the journey.
What I love about the role of Concierge is that you never know what unusual request will spring up or famous guests you may meet.
One of the strangest requests was when I worked at the Four Seasons, Auckland and at short notice, four American Business men wanted to taste what a traditional Maori Hangi was like. (Food cooked on hot stones under the ground). I called up a couple of mates from my local rugby club and they quickly organized it at the Rugby Club where the guests enjoyed some true ‘Kiwi” hospitality and entertainment!!