In this episode of 5 Star Conversations, Brendon sits down with Dean Minett, a seasoned hospitality professional with over four decades of experience in hotel management, consultancy, and asset management. Dean shares how his career began unexpectedly when his love for cooking led him to the Southern Cross Hotel Melbourne, an industry icon at the time. By the age of 23, he was already a General Manager, a remarkable achievement that set the stage for his distinguished career. Dean’s journey took him through various leadership roles, from Interwest and Ascott Limited to founding Gatehouse Hospitality, where he now advises hotel owners, investors, and operators across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe.
His career has been shaped by mentorship, resilience, and a keen eye for operational excellence, and he credits early industry leaders for inspiring his commitment to detail, guest experience, and strong leadership.
Beyond his career, Dean reflects on the evolving hospitality landscape, sharing insights into how AI and technology are reshaping guest interactions while cautioning against over-reliance on automation at the expense of human connection. He discusses how sustainability, design innovation, and the guest experience will continue to define the future of hotels. With a strong focus on people-first leadership, he emphasizes the importance of treating all stakeholders with respect, including suppliers, employees, and guests. His guiding philosophy—"When in doubt, be kind"—stems from his belief in understanding and supporting others, especially in an industry built on service.
In a lighter moment, Dean shares a surprising personal passion—Kendo, a Japanese martial art that has taught him discipline, resilience, and the value of continuous learning. He compares mastery in Kendo to a career in hospitality, where true learning begins only after years of experience. His advice for aspiring hoteliers? Love working with people, take initiative, and never stop learning.
Bio for Dean Minett
Dean Minett is a seasoned hospitality professional with over four decades of experience in hotel management, consultancy, and asset management. As Managing Director of Gatehouse Hospitality, he has focused on delivering best-in-class hospitality services and bespoke business development advice for hotel developers and investors across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. His corporate career includes roles as Country General Manager for The Ascott Limited, where he successfully launched and repositioned brands, improved profitability, and managed multi-million-dollar serviced residences. Dean's expertise spans operational transformation, asset rationalisation, and the development of strategies for market entry and growth, making him a key figure in driving innovation and operational excellence in the industry.
Throughout his career, Dean has been deeply involved in industry education, thought leadership, and governance. He has served on various boards and committees, including the William Angliss Institute and Parks Victoria, and has contributed extensively to hospitality literature as a columnist and co-author of industry texts. Recognized as a "Tourism Legend" by Tourism Training Australia, his accolades include judging national and state tourism awards and mentoring future leaders. Dean's passion for the sector is complemented by his academic background, including a Master of Business (Research) and credentials from the Australian Institute of Company Directors, ensuring his influence extends from operational to strategic realms within hospitality.
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Podcast Contact Details:
Email: Brendon@Technology4hotels.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendongranger
Phone: +61 2 8317 4000
Phone: 1300 503 657 (Australia only)