Daniel Pemberton

An empathetic, organised and highly motivated professional with over 20 years' experience in hospitality, complemented by a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling and counselling placement experience in both face-to-face and online settings. Recognised for a calm, person-centred approach, excellent communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships while managing competing priorities. Experienced in coaching and mentoring others, solving complex problems and maintaining high standards in demanding environments.

Director of Meeting & Events Planning - Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel

(2022-08 - 2026-05)

• Directed the commercial and operational performance of the Meeting & Events Planning department.
• Worked closely with the Sales and operations teams to maximise revenue, contributing to a record £6.9 million in event revenue during 2025.
• Introduced robust planning processes and a strong client feedback culture, enhancing service quality and the hotel's reputation.
• Led, mentored and developed a team of five event planners with varying levels of experience.
• Collaborated with the HR team on staff engagement activities.
• Managed the full recruitment process, including CV screening, interviewing, selection and onboarding, ensuring the successful appointment and development of high-performing team members
• Conducted monthly one-to-one meetings and created personalised development plans to support career progression.
• Reported directly to the General Manager as a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
• Led award submissions, resulting in two shortlistings for Banqueting Team of the Year at The Cateys and one shortlisting for Hotel of the Year.

Senior Meeting & Events Planning Manager - Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel

(2020-09 - 2022-08)

• Managed the planning and delivery of the hotel's largest and most complex events.
• Redesigned the department structure to create clearer progression opportunities and improve team development.
• Managed and supported a team of three event planners.

Meeting & Events Planning Manager - Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel

(2014-09 - 2020-09)

• Managed a £3m personal portfolio of conferences, exhibitions and banqueting events
• Planned and delivered large-scale events for up to 1,000 guests.
• Supported training and development across the hotel group through mentoring, coaching and the departmental "Inspirator" programme.
• Achieved a Distinction in the Hospitality Supervisor Level 3 Apprenticeship.

CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling - Therapeutic Counselling - Reaching Solutions (RSPCT) (2023-09 - 2025-07)

CPCAB Level 3 Counselling Studies - Counselling - Morley College (2021-09 - 2022-05)

CPCAB Level 2 certificate in Counselling Skills - Counselling - Morley College (2021-01 - 2021-07)

10 GCSEs (A-C) and A levels - General Education - The Holy Trinity School, Crawley (1999-09 - 2006-06)