This month we’re catching up with Shangri-La The Shard’s General Manager, Kurt Macher, to find out a bit more about him as he joins the Team London Bridge Board.

What would be your perfect day in the London Bridge area?

My perfect day here in London Bridge would start off with an invigorating workout at Third Space gym and a session in its aromatic juniper log glass sauna, before heading over to Borough Market for a latte at Monmouth Coffee to sip while I stroll in the morning breeze by the River Thames. I’d come back to Borough Market for lunchtime for fettuccine at Padella before heading over to White Cube on Bermondsey Street to check out some contemporary art. In the evening, there’s no better place to watch a London Bridge sunset than over cocktails at GŎNG on level 52 of Shangri-La The Shard, London, with incredible views over the city.

What are you most looking forward to working with Team London Bridge on?

I’m looking forward to bringing more events to the area, and through my 31 years of hospitality experience, to use my expertise to support the board and hospitality businesses in the area.

If you didn’t work in the luxury hotel sector, what would you be doing right now?

Outside hospitality, I love beautiful interiors and exploring the world. If I didn’t work in this sector, I’d love to be an interior designer or a TV presenter for a travel show.

Can you tell us a secret about Shangri-La at The Shard?

You wouldn’t expect it, but one of my favourite spot to view London’s skyline from Shangri-La The Shard is from the men’s toilet on Level 34!

What do you love most about your job?

It’s difficult to choose just one thing I love the most, as there are so many. One is creating unforgettable experiences for people who come from London and all over the world. Another is the opportunity to help train and develop the next generation of hoteliers. And I’m a competitive person, so I’m constantly thinking of new ways for Shangri-La The Shard, London to disrupt London’s relentlessly evolving hotel scene, and to offer the very best to our guests.

What remains the greatest challenge to your business caused by the pandemic?

As with most hospitality businesses, we’re facing a huge challenge now in terms of shortage of staff members and supplies exacerbated by the pandemic. We hope the government will step in to help alleviate these issues as we continue to see their knock on effect across the whole industry and wider economy.

For more about the Team London Bridge Board and governance click here.

Meet Team London Bridge's latest Board member