Member Article

Angela Horley, behind the scenes at Wynyard Hall

Synopsis of your area of expertise:

Having worked in a corporate sales environment for the last 19 years, I took on the role of Business Development Manager at Wynyard Hall two and a half years ago with the prime responsibility of developing B2B contacts and proactively building and maintaining relationships with business customers. During my time at Wynyard Hall, I have achieved an 80 per cent increase in revenue from B2B sales.

What key challenges has your company recently faced?

There have been significant challenges in the tourism sector since Visit Tees Valley was disbanded due to the reduction in Government funding.

Having said that, Wynyard Hall has seen very little impact and I believe that’s largely because we have remained positive and pro-active in implementing our sales and marketing strategy.

What has been your biggest achievement over the past 12 months?

Our Christmas shopping fayre was a huge success, attracting a record 7000 visitors to the hall over two days. However, undoubtedly our biggest achievement has been the launch of our Spa. Located on the edge of the lake overlooking the hotel’s private grounds, it is a superb facility for residents and day visitors alike and is the perfect addition to Wynyard Hall.

What is your biggest focus for the coming year?

Easy – to obtain four red stars and a third AA rosette for our Wellington Restaurant.

If you had to choose one top piece of advice for someone just starting out in business, or is currently operating within your industry sector, what would it be?

I would give two pieces. The first would be to research business, tourism and leisure in your area to identify your market and your competition. The second piece of advice would be to build and maintain key working relationships. This will give you the competitive edge against other companies in your industry, when the offering is like for like.

Can you share with us your view of the current landscape of business, in this region or generally and where your organisation sits within it?

Tees Valley and the surrounding area is a hub of activity for businesses both large and small. Blue chip companies in the area routinely choose Wynyard Hall to entertain and accommodate colleagues and visitors, as it offers not only a spectacular setting but a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

A number of SMEs in the region also choose the hall to meet clients outside the office environment - and lunch in the Wellington Restaurant and afternoon tea in the Library are always very popular.

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