Q&A with Zoltan

What do you love most about Wycliffe Park?

I love the layout of Wycliffe House, everything is central and in close proximity. Not to mention how cosy it is. Same with the apartment blocks, they are just a short distance from each other which adds to the community feel and keeps everyone feeling safe and secure.

Describe your job in 3 words

Challenging, rewarding, teamwork

What do you find most rewarding as General Manager?

When I walk around and I see happy owners and a happy team with a smile on their faces, that’s the reward. Also when I see my team getting stronger day by day and progress in their career that’s probably the biggest reward I could ask for.

What’s the most memorable thing an owner has said to you?

A couple once said to me, which I will always remember,

“The best decision in our life was to move into this Audley village, I wish we did it sooner when we turned 55.”

Having worked at 5 other villages, your expertise is extensive, and as a result you often find yourself travelling to other villages to support the team and owners there. What have you learnt from this experience?

Different villages have their own challenges and there are some very good practices in place to ensure the smooth operation of the facilities. Learning from mistakes and “breathing in” all the good work I see around me definitely helps, so I can use these to my advantage.

Being Hungarian, are there any cultural nuances that you bring to Wycliffe Park?

I am not sure if it’s a Hungarian nuance however I bring hard work and determination to the workplace. In Hungarian culture, people are excellent at welcoming guests and treating them with everything they need or desire. If someone is invited to a Hungarian household, he/she is going to be treated like a queen or a king. Our hospitality team at Wycliffe Park radiates joy and love, and you can't beat that.

What was the reaction of your family and friends upon visiting Wycliffe Park?

They loved it as they have when I've worked at other Audley villages. My wife said it would be stunning once the grounds matured and I must say, she is right!

Have you visited other villages with your family? Do they have a favourite?

We have visited 6 other villages and I think their favourite is Inglewood. It has an amazing drive up to it with beautiful huge trees either side. That is something special to make a lasting first impression.

You're welcoming more people to the Audley Club with the current Black Friday promotion.  What makes the Audley Club at Wycliffe Park special?

I believe our guests and members come here for relaxation, the pool is the most popular part of the facilities. After a swim, class or workout session, club members can wander the few paces over to the bistro for a hot or cold drink.

Do you have a favourite dish on the menu?

My favourite dish is the blade of beef now the weather is colder. The flavoursome slow-cooked red meat with the red wine jus gives you a cosy, warm feeling.

Have you observed or joined in with any of the fitness classes yet?

We had a pumpkin exercise class for Halloween which I joined with, along with other team members. It was great fun, all owners and the team loved it.

Of the many events you run for your owners there, which has been the most memorable to date?

We had the “Wycliffe Extravaganza” which was the busiest until now and we had amazing feedback from all guests.

Do you or any of your team have any hidden talents?

I have a great team here at Wycliffe Park they are definitely talented in hospitality…and they don’t hide that! I haven't discovered any hidden talents yet.

(We think that Zoltan running a Marathon was pretty impressive!)

Thanks Zoltan, good luck with the launch of your new restaurant and bistro, Aston's at Wycliffe Park.