A day in the life of our director of private visits and embassy relations

I feel at home at Claridge’s – and I strive to make every client feel the same

Alex Bakirtzidis, director of private visits and embassy relations


Claridge’s has attracted the great and the good from across the globe ever since it first opened. From international royalty to business leaders and stars of the creative world, many guests require the highest levels of discreet service. From his office just off the main lobby, Alex Bakirtzidis is in charge of ensuring that everything is in place for these guests.

Putting everything in place

As the director of private visits and embassy relations, it is my job to ensure every element is perfectly in place to ensure the highest levels of service and the utmost discretion.

Whatever the day holds, I like nothing better than helping guests and working with the public from my office just off the main lobby. I love what I do because I feel at home here and I strive to make sure every guest feels the same way. Every challenge is worth it, because the sense of reward you get from doing something out of the ordinary is priceless.

No detail overlooked

My role calls for a thorough knowledge of the hotel and its clients – something that I have gained during my 26 years of working at Claridge’s. I joined the team as director of guest relations, becoming director of private visits and embassy relations in 2011.

No two days are the same, with each bringing its own rewards, challenges and excitement. For example, in 2004 I was asked to plan and hold a certain famous model’s 30th birthday party in one of the Claridge’s signature suites – with just one day’s notice. So between us, we marshalled in-room dining, butler services and security – everyone performing superbly well. 

With such challenges to manage, I have learnt to expect the unexpected. I would count patience, open-mindedness and being a good listener among the key skills needed for my job.

Beyond Brook Street

When the working day comes to an end, I look forward to spending time with my wife and two children.