The Grand Brighton is one of country's best places to work

The Grand on Brighton seafront was listed in the UK’s 100 Best Large Companies to Work For in 2021.

It follows news that the venue, which first opened in 1864, has reopened its doors to paying guests once again this week.

The seafront landmark was also on the list of the Top 20 Leisure and Hospitality Companies in the UK.

Andrew Mosley, General Manager said: “We have never felt so proud of the sense of community amongst our team and the lengths our amazing People Team have gone to, to keep our people at the heart of our business.

“This is such an incredible achievement for us and we’re so grateful to be recognised amongst such fantastic businesses throughout the UK.

“We’re so proud to have been recognised as one of the Best Companies to Work For in the UK and are incredibly thankful to our wonderful team and all of our supporters.”

The Grand team celebrate in Brighton

The Grand says both accolades are “made even more special because of all the challenges we’ve experienced over the last year”.

It said it shares a “people-first” ethos with its employees, to make sure “all team members feel proud to work at the hotel and are connected to their values”.

The Grand listens to employees through engagement surveys, employee suggestions, and their “Think Grand” team, made up of representatives from departments throughout the hotel.

They celebrate achievement with a unique Grand rewards scheme, a team thanks app “Mo”, and monthly and annual awards – none of which stopped throughout lockdown.

People director Andi Hirons said: “Over the last year, we have organised online quizzes and challenges, wellbeing check-ins, live cook-alongs with our amazing chefs, and more.

“Exceptional people deserve to be part of exceptional experiences and we are so proud of what we have achieved together.”

Andi said the “outstanding team” is back welcoming excited guests this month.

The Grand said: “Every team member contributes to that Grand experience, whether they’re offering a warm welcome and a tip of a bowler hat at the door, cleaning and preparing beautiful bedrooms, or serving up some delicious treats in the restaurants and bar.”

The Grand hotel Brighton, pic by Geoffrey Arrowsmith

It is part of Brighton’s historic Victorian seafront and was conceived of as the original “palace by the sea”.

Mr Mosley added: “Guests can enjoy award-winning afternoon teas in the sun-soaked Victoria Terrace, ready to eat picnics to explore Brighton, epic Sunday roasts with all the trimmings, a locally-sourced and seasonal dining menu in Cyan, delicious cocktails and night caps in the bar, and more.”

There are hopes that with coronavirus restrictions affecting many trips abroad this summer, that the British hotel industry will see a boom instead.

To find out more about The Grand in Brighton visit: www.grandbrighton.co.uk.