This week, Cassie is joined by Sorrel Ward, newly appointed Sales and Marketing Director at Wembley Arena, to explore her incredible career path in hospitality. From flipping burgers at 14 to running marketing for major hospitality brands, Sorrel’s story is a testament to the endless opportunities the industry provides.

She shares how hospitality shaped her skills, why she transitioned from front-of-house roles into marketing, and how relationships and networks have fueled her career growth. Now, as she steps into the world of large-scale events at Wembley, Sorrel reflects on why hospitality is more than just a stopgap—it’s a career full of possibility.

⏱ [00:08] – Welcome & introduction to Sorrel
⏱ [00:34] – A career-defining start: Flipping burgers at 14
⏱ [02:33] – From acting aspirations to finding a passion for hospitality
⏱ [05:02] – Working in Guernsey: The magic of seasonal hospitality
⏱ [07:38] – Travel & hospitality: From Cape Town to Australia
⏱ [12:26] – Climbing the ranks: From bar work to management training
⏱ [15:06] – Why hospitality is still misunderstood as a career path
⏱ [17:28] – Transitioning to training & management roles
⏱ [21:43] – Moving into marketing & the power of hospitality networks
⏱ [30:26] – The evolution of hospitality: Marketing in a changing landscape
⏱ [37:42] – The next big move: Starting at Wembley Arena

🔗 Connect with Sorrel on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorrel-ward-24ab288/
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This episode, Cassie is joined by Lorraine Copes, founder of Be Inclusive Hospitality, to discuss how she transitioned from a career in procurement and supply chain to leading a social enterprise dedicated to creating a more equitable hospitality industry.

With over 20 years of experience across pubs, contract catering, fine dining, and casual dining, Lorraine shares her personal journey, the challenges she faced in leadership, and why representation matters.

Through research, mentorship, and partnerships, Be Inclusive Hospitality is raising awareness and driving real action in the sector.

⏱ [00:01] – Welcome & introduction to Lorraine
⏱ [00:26] – From logistics to hospitality procurement: Lorraine’s career path
⏱ [03:07] – The creative side of problem-solving in supply chain & procurement
⏱ [06:45] – Why procurement is a key function for hospitality success
⏱ [11:35] – The shift from corporate hospitality to purpose-led business
⏱ [13:56] – Founding Be Inclusive Hospitality: The need for change in the industry
⏱ [16:19] – Research & reports: Uncovering barriers to progression in hospitality
⏱ [18:33] – Raising awareness vs. driving real action in businesses
⏱ [22:21] – Why education is essential to creating long-term inclusivity
⏱ [25:31] – How understanding people’s experiences creates stronger teams
⏱ [28:46] – How the industry is reacting & the future of inclusivity in hospitality
⏱ [30:53] – Where to find Be Inclusive Hospitality & access research

🔗 Learn more about Be Inclusive Hospitality: www.bihospitality.co.uk
🔗 Follow Lorraine on LinkedIn:
🔗 Follow Be Inclusive Hospitality on social media: [Instagram | LinkedIn ]
🔗 Follow Kith & Kin for more hospitality insights:

This episode, Cassie is joined by Emma, Senior Communications Manager at Heartwood Collection, to explore how a strong brand purpose can simplify business operations and generate high emotional engagement—both from customers and the team.

Emma shares her journey from corporate law to hospitality, revealing how Heartwood’s commitment to values-driven leadership, community focus, and internal growth has fueled its success. As an award-winning brand that continues to expand while maintaining deep local connections, Heartwood is proof that when people feel they belong, businesses thrive.

⏱ [00:01] – Welcome & introduction to Emma
⏱ [00:27] – Emma’s career shift: From law to a hospitality brand with purpose
⏱ [02:09] – Early experiences in hospitality & the emotional pull of the industry
⏱ [06:54] – Why Heartwood works: A brand built on values, not just transactions
⏱ [08:06] – Winning Sunday Times Best Place to Work – the power of a people-first culture
⏱ [09:40] – Simplifying success: How a clear brand purpose guides growth
⏱ [14:22] – High emotional engagement: Why customers & staff feel ownership of Heartwood pubs
⏱ [17:23] – Storytelling & hospitality: Connecting with guests through authenticity
⏱ [27:03] – Heartwood’s expansion strategy & balancing growth with community focus
⏱ [35:43] – Future plans: Sustaining success without losing the personal touch

🔗 Connect with Emma on LinkedIn:
🔗 Learn more about Heartwood Collection