Klara Labuz is a popular member of our Low Wood Bay team. She tells us a bit about her career within English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues, and how she has progressed within the company over the last eight years.
Tell us about your English Lakes career journey
I’ve been part of the team at English Lakes Hotels since July 2013, almost eight years now. I started as a Receptionist and learned how to deliver great customer service as well as the importance of communication and teamwork. After two years I was promoted to Reception Shift Leader and had the opportunity to learn more about the business and about organising a team.
I started a new adventure at Low Wood Bay in 2017 when I became Office Manager at Low Wood Bay Marina and Watersports Centre. This was my first managerial role which I found both challenging and very satisfying. The role has recently expanded and my managerial responsibilities now also include Low Wood Bay Spa and Health Club.
How Has Training Helped your Career?
Klara (left) receiving an award from Diana Berry, and Simon Berry, Chairman & Managing Director, at an English Lakes Awards lunch
Since the day I joined English Lakes, I have been shown how much the company culture promotes training and development. Not only was I encouraged and helped in perfecting my English language skills, but I also progressed through a number of NVQ courses – first, Front of House, level 2 and then NVQ Level 3 in Hospitality Supervision & Leadership. During my time at Reception I also completed my HR Diploma.
Is there a typical day in the life of Leisure Office Manager?
Every day is very different. That’s what makes the job even more enjoyable. The first thing I do when I come to work is to appreciate the view at this amazing location. Then my day starts with accountancy tasks, email correspondence, attending various meetings, personnel administration, helping with running of the resort leisure facilities, and any other duties required on the day.
View of Low Wood Bay from Low Wood Bay Watersports Centre
Do you take to the water yourself?
Yes, absolutely. As Watersports Office Manager I wasn’t just stuck in the office, I was lucky enough to be able to interact with customers, send out motorboats, help on the beach, take bookings and look after our lovely marina members. After a busy day at work, I get to enjoy the facilities and the equipment myself and I love going paddle boarding or going out wakesurfing. Paddle boarding after work is a great way to unwind. I can completely switch off and just enjoy the beauty of the lake.
Watersports Centre will be working with Wake on the Bay this year and I will be signing up for wakesurfing lessons.
Klara and her husband, Blazej, on Lake Windermere
A few of your favourite things
I love the variety of the tasks and the measure of trust given to me by my Manager I am fortunate to say that I love what I do and I think that is one of the most important things in life. It helps that I am surrounded by fantastic colleagues and very capable and caring senior management. I also enjoy the perks that come with the job like the entrance to Health Club and Spa and discounts on food and drinks.
English Lakes hosts three Award Lunches for staff every year
Defining English Lakes ‘Family’
Klara, and members of the Low Wood Bay team getting together to take part in a beach clean
Family is for me a sense of genuine caring, continued support, understanding and security. It’s about people I can count on in difficult times in life, and with whom I can share the happiest times. Originally from Czech Republic, moving into a different country was, at times, challenging. Over the past 8 years, I have met a lot of incredible and inspiring people at English Lakes who have become friends. The company’s culture is all about recognizing strengths and behaviours of others and I believe that the management is purposeful in creating this sense of family where individuals are supported and listened to in any stage of life.
Describe the atmosphere at Low Wood Bay Watersports
It is buzzing. Working outdoors is wonderful itself, and all our team are passionate about water sports. It is hard work on some days but it is also a very satisfying job. Every season we have a wonderful team and we are very excited to be recruiting again to for this season. When restrictions ease this year we will be able to start organising barbeques and water sports evenings for our team.
Any other employee benefits that you enjoy?
Eating out at Low Wood's Blue Smoke on the Bay
Personally, I love going to the swimming pool while my husband enjoys spending time in the gym. We also like to treat ourselves by going out for meals, and eating at English Lakes restaurants is very affordable with the staf discount of 20%. My husband is a Chef and as much as he enjoys cooking, he loves eating at the different English Lakes restaurants. Each year we are given a Birthday Stay at one of the hotels which is a great way to celebrate.
Join the English Lakes Team
For more information about working at English Lakes Hotels, Resorts & Venues and a list of our current vacancies, take a look at our Jobs Page.