Getting to know... Richard Smith

In the latest instalment of Bdaily’s Getting to know… feature, which looks at the person behind the business profile, Richard Smith, general commercial manager at hospitality venue Aldwark Manor, based near York, talks about the joy he takes from helping people celebrate special occasions, becoming an adopted Yorkshireman and his unexpected appearance in a TV detective show.

Did you always want to work in hospitality?

Not consciously, although I’ve always enjoyed working with people and understanding what’s important to them – I think that naturally led me towards hospitality, where people are at the heart of what you do. 

It’s also an industry where you can start at a young age and work your way through different roles, which I’ve always found appealing.

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst?

The best part is seeing people have a genuinely great experience at Aldwark Manor, whether they’re celebrating a wedding, anniversary, birthday, or simply spending time with friends and family.

Playing a part in those special occasions is incredibly rewarding.

The challenging part is that hospitality is a people business, and there are so many variables. 

Things don’t always go to plan, like if someone has their heart set on an outdoor wedding ceremony and the weather suddenly changes.

You have to be able to adapt quickly, find a solution and work around the problem so that the guest still gets the day of their dreams.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement? 

I think it’s my ability to adapt and change according to the needs of the businesses and organisations I’ve worked for.

Hospitality is constantly evolving, so you have to keep learning, developing and being willing to change.

I’m also proud of the people I’ve worked with and witnessed their development along the way. 

How do you relax outside of work?

Classic cars are probably my biggest hobby these days.

I have a 1979 MGB GT called Beryl, and my wife and I enjoy getting out in it for a drive.

What makes North Yorkshire such a great place to live and work?

The people and the countryside.

I’m originally a Brummie, and one of the things I’ve always loved about Birmingham is that people tend to be very friendly and down to earth.

I’ve found exactly the same warmth in Yorkshire.

I live just outside York, so I also love I can be in the city enjoying the galleries, restaurants and history, and then jump in the car and be out in the countryside almost immediately. 

Tell us something about you we didn’t know...

I was once an extra on a TV drama, completely by chance.

When I travelled up to Glasgow for a sales meeting with Friendly Hotels, a film crew was shooting a programme about a female Scottish detective.

A colleague and I were cajoled into being extras in the background of a restaurant scene.

I was in my mid-20s at the time, and it made a change from the typical sales meeting!

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