The Drake Hotel has always been a hub for art, culture, expression and hospitality.

For nearly 20 years, Drake Hotel Properties’ unique offerings, experiences and partnerships have evolved for its guests.

Its legacy has been built through creating one-of-a-kind experiential stays that weave together the best of art, culture, community and excellent hospitality, all within impeccably designed spaces, always intertwined with the best of what its vibrant neighbourhoods and communities have to offer. The Drake has consistently fulfilled its commitment to immerse guests effortlessly in the local culture.

Unsurprisingly, two Drake Hotel Properties were recently recognized in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards: Toronto’s Drake Hotel at #11, and Drake Devonshire at #18 in “Hotels in Eastern Canada.”

Q: What feeling or ambience is the Drake Hotel aiming to deliver to its guests?
A: Friendly, inspiring and curated for the curious.

Q: Can you share some of the core values that the Drake Hotel upholds in providing exceptional service?
A: We are a team of dreamers and doers, are guest-centric, and taking care of our internalguests―ourteammembers― is a priority. We strive to service our local community and neighbourhood, acting as proud ambassadors while ensuring our spaces feel open and welcoming to all the
communities we serve.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in the hospitality industry and eventually become the general manager of the Drake Hotel?
A: I started in the hospitality industry when I was a teenager, and it immediately resonated with me — I loved being in a live environment, interacting with guests and making them happy, and all the people I worked with. The people who choose to work in hospitality are the best — genuine, dedicated, hardworking and fun. I worked in restaurants all through university, and, when I graduated, I decided to pursue this career path and have never looked back. I find great satisfaction in leading a team of dedicated professionals as they grow in their careers, and we make incredible guest experiences come to life.

Q: What are some of the ways the Drake Hotel sets itself apart from other hotel establishments?
A: Our commitment to community, DEI [Diversity, Equity and Inclusion], arts and culture, exceptional team members, and unwavering commitment to deliver a best- in-class guest experience through design, seasonal menus, a bespoke cocktail program and on-property experiences.

Q: How does the Drake Hotel ensure its staff embodies its hospitality values and
consistently delivers exceptional service?
A: We prioritize taking care of our team members and, in turn, they take care of our guests. We are blessed to have a lot of team members who have been with us for a very long time … some since the inception of the brand 20 years ago. This speaks to our commitment to them as valued employees and their commitment to the Drake and our guests.

Q: What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
A: As a leader, your energy will trickle down to your team, so lead by example. Stay positive, listen to your team … you can’t work in a silo. Have empathy, follow through on your commitments, be kind, and your people are the most important part of your business.

www.thedrake.ca
@thedrake