Getting to know your GM

At the age of 9, Patrick Shorten made up his mind to one day be in the business of hotels. 

In comparison to his modest home life, where a can of coca cola was a once a week treat and a serving of ice cream was at best a once a month indulgence, when he visited his best friend (who’s father was a hotel manager at Rawdons hotel in Nottingham road) he experienced a world where you could have any treat you wanted at any time. The shear extravagance blew his mind open to a whole new realm of unlimited possibilities. He knew that this was the world where he belonged. 

Patrick has been in the hotel industry for over 36 years and has become a specialist in boutique hotel management. He thrives on recreating the same childhood joy he experienced, for each of his guests. 

From his calm, professional demeanor, it was a treat to see his eyes light up as he spoke passionately about his love for the hospitality industry. This is a man with a true calling and his passion for people is profound. 

“It’s always fascinating to watch the guests as they arrive off the plane - their faces creased with concern and worry, to the transformation that happens on the island, so that by the time they leave, the weight of the world has been lifted from their shoulders and they are renewed and at peace. It’s as if the island smooth’s out the creases.” 

Patrick’s hotel experiences are intriguing – from living in the bush surrounded by wild animals to living on a remote island. He’s been in some of the most beautiful places in the world, worked with incredible premium hotels brands, rubbed shoulders with top celebrities and met some incredible people who have become associates and life long friends. No matter where he has been, his driving principle remains the same: 

“It’s not just about meeting your guests expectations, it’s about exceeding them. A satisfied guest is a happy one and that’s the goal. We want people to be happy.”

Working in the hotel industry requires exceptionally long hours – often 18 hours a day, so work becomes your lifestyle. But when you describe daily responsibilities as incredibly stimulating, the work is a welcome challenge. He loves interacting with the island guests, working with the multi-cultural team of staff and not wearing shoes to a perk too! 

Patrick doesn’t just live his 9 year old dream, he thrives on it.