In this episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, we sit down with Dale Triffitt, founder of Groberri, leadership trainer, HR consultant and former HR lead at Mercure and Ibis in Paignton. Dale shares how better workplaces lead to better service, and how hospitality leaders in Torbay can build confident, resilient teams even in the face of seasonal pressure.

We discuss:

• The reality of HR and leadership in a seasonal resort town

• Why recruitment and retention require different approaches

• How to turn promising team members into outstanding managers

• Strategies for managing morale during peak summer surges

• The conversations every hospitality manager needs to get better at

Plus, Dale shares details of his free HR Starter Kit, packed with templates and tools to support busy managers! This kit including contracts, checklists, return to work forms and more.

Free Resource
👉 Get Dale’s HR Starter Kit – worth over £250 – free at groberri.co.uk

https://www.groberri.co.uk/hr-services/free-hr-and-leadership-guides-and-templates/

Connect with Dale:

• Website: groberri.co.uk

• LinkedIn: Dale Triffitt

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In this episode, we sit down with Steve Garratt, the driving force behind Arena Torquay. This striking new 1200-capacity venue is set to reshape the events and nightlife landscape in South Devon. From cutting-edge production tech to ambitious programming, Arena is more than just a venue. It is a bold investment in Torquay's future.

Steve talks candidly about what brought him to the Bay, the highs and lows of launching a major venue, and what it takes to build a space that serves both the local community and top-tier touring acts. He also shares insights on leadership, the evolution of nightlife, and what makes a venue truly memorable.

Stick around for the quick-fire round where Steve reveals his ultimate comfort food, his dream guest performer, and what he would borrow from other towns to boost Torbay’s scene.

Steve also dives into the power of design, technology, and atmosphere in driving success, and offers thoughtful advice for anyone looking to make their mark in hospitality or live events.

Connect with Arena Torquay:
Visit www.arenatorquay.com Find out What's On: https://arenatorquay.seetickets.com/search/all

If you are looking for an exciting new look for your hotel, restaurant, club or attraction, get in touch with Demi Keenan at studio@demikeenaninteriors.co.uk

In this episode of the Torbay Hospitality Podcast, we sit down with Robin Barker, the head of the South West Tourism Awards, to explore how awards are shaping the future of tourism in the region.

Robin shares the broader purpose behind the awards and how they support innovation, encourage resilience, and help raise standards across the sector. From tackling favouritism to prioritising sustainability, this conversation looks at what it really takes to deliver meaningful recognition in a constantly evolving industry.If you are a tourism or hospitality business in the region, now is the time to step forward and be recognised.

Entries for the Devon Tourism Awards close at midnight on 18 May

For full details and to enter, visit the official website:
South West Tourism Awards

Huge thanks as always to Kelly Widley, taking over as show host for this episode. And to Robin for bringing along his faithful dog, Millie!