In the heart of the Cotswolds, Feldon Valley is more than just a hotel, restaurant, and golf course—it’s a thriving community of dedicated professionals who bring passion and expertise to every guest experience. While local talent forms the backbone of our team, expanding our recruitment efforts internationally has allowed us to find exceptional individuals who elevate our service standards and bring fresh perspectives to our operations. One such invaluable team member is Assistant Restaurant Manager Hellen, whose journey with Feldon Valley showcases the immense benefits of hiring overseas talent.
Hellen joined Feldon Valley over two years ago through our recruitment partners, Hospitality Jobs Africa, after an extensive yet challenging search for a suitable candidate domestically. Managing Director David King reflects on this pivotal decision:
“At a time when we were really struggling to recruit quality lead roles in the Restaurant to support Restaurant Manager Martina and the Kitchen team, we received Hellen’s CV from our amazing recruiters in South Africa – Hospitality Jobs Africa. It was initially frustrating having to look overseas after a long, unsuccessful domestic search, but Hellen has brought us nothing but positivity since she arrived, and I am delighted that we took this bold decision when we did. Hellen brings a wealth of experience to Feldon Valley; she has international exposure and has dealt with people from all walks of life with her calm, professional manner. We are delighted to have recently celebrated her two-year anniversary at Feldon Valley, and I hope to have many more as she expands her role within the business.”
On working at Feldon, Hellen added:
“I was recruited by Feldon Valley in November 2022 and they were helpful throughout the whole process, including before I got to the UK. The Restaurant Manager Martina went out of her way several times for me to make sure I settled well. I enjoy working at Feldon Valley because I get to meet new people every day and the management always gives a helping hand when ever needed, showing support for staff member at all times.”
Beyond her impressive skills and leadership, Hellen’s presence has enriched Feldon's culture. She thrives on the welcoming and supportive environment, cherishing the opportunity to meet new people—from colleagues to members. Her enthusiasm and dedication exemplify how international recruitment not only fills essential roles but also enhances team dynamics, bringing a global perspective to our Cotswolds retreat.
By embracing international hiring, we ensured that Feldon Valley grew as a business and created a more stable work environment for our entire team, whilst also helping us deliver hospitality excellence, driven by talented individuals like Hellen, who make a lasting impact every day.
David King added;
“The challenge for 2025 and beyond is how this is maintained now that the Government has made the skilled worker visa route much more difficult to apply to hospitality roles. The shortage of quality UK based candidates is still very much there and a problem we see in recruitment throughout the business. Although I absolutely support the increases in minimum wage, when coupled with the changes to employer national insurance contributions from April, it make this a tough year for hospitality - the focus on staffing levels and quality service will be more acute than ever before. Finding professionals that see hospitality as a career within the local recruitment pool is certainly not guaranteed and one of my biggest concerns going forward. Luckily for our business, we have a wonderful team in place right now and I am sure that we will see our team grow and develop within their roles, but for other businesses in the area not so well positioned, it could be a very bumpy road ahead.
