NEWCASTLE’S Assembly Rooms is stepping into the spotlight following new appointments and continued refurbishment works as the venue prepares to celebrate a very special birthday.
The iconic building dating back to 1776 will mark its 240th birthday next year, standing as a landmark venue for over two centuries for corporate and social functions in the heart of the city centre.
The latest additions to The Assembly Rooms’ and Bonbar’s 80-strong team coincide with a recent injection of investment to enhance the venue’s interior as it approaches the busiest season in the hospitality calendar.
Emily Berry has been appointed as sales and marketing executive, responsible for new business development. The 26-year-old from Wideopen joins the business following a successful executive role in the region which saw her promoted to management, as well as a short spell in Cyprus.
Emily said: “Since graduating from university in 2013 and gaining valuable experience in the industry, I was ready to take the next step in my career and relished the opportunity to become part of the team at one of the most iconic venues in the city.
“As a marketing executive, an important part of my job is meeting with existing and new clients which I’m really enjoying as I’m very much a people person.”
The business has also strengthened its team with the promotion of Dean Waterworth from operations manager to functions and events manager. Dean, 25, who lives in Gateshead, is responsible for the running of all events being hosted at the venue.
Dean said: “I discovered my passion for the hospitality industry when I was a teenager waiting tables in a local hotel. This led to me going on to study hospitality and tourism management at university and since then, enjoy a variety of roles within the industry.
“As the working hours in this industry can often be long, it’s vital that you love your job and work with a great team – since joining The Assembly Rooms and Bonbar, I’ve been made to feel like part of the family. No two days at work are ever the same and I’ve found I really thrive on the diversity of my new role.”
Recent renovation work has seen bar refurbishments to two of The Assembly Room’s six suites, extensive floor refits throughout the venue, including new carpet to the ground floor reception, grand staircase and first floor reception and the installation of LED lighting to the premier ballroom suite, adding to its opulent setting by creating various colour washes on the walls.
The historic venue is no stranger to hosting milestone celebrations, having accommodated many special occasions over the decades.
Antony Michaelides, managing director of both The Assembly Rooms and Bonbar, which sits within the iconic venue, said: “With a big birthday looming next year, we’re looking ahead to this momentous occasion and can’t wait to celebrate the venue’s longstanding success in the city centre.
“Since my father and uncle acquired the venue back in 1974 and I took the reins over two decades ago it has always been our ethos to pay meticulous attention to detail in the maintenance of the building, ensuring any restoration work reflects the venue’s former glory.
“It’s always a great position to be in as a business when you’re looking to recruit and we’re pleased to have welcomed Emily and Dean on board. We’re continuing to grow our team so it’s an exciting time to join the business.”
The Assembly Rooms and Bonbar is recruiting a number of positions including a nightclub manager, banqueting staff, restaurant floor staff, cocktail bartenders, bar staff and hostesses. To find out more information or to apply, email recruitment@bonbar.co.uk or call 0191 232 8695.
For more information on The Assembly Rooms visit www.assemblyrooms.co.uk or call 0191 232 8695.