Nina Lam

“…a people-oriented culture, a focus on personal as well as business growth, and a specialization in learning and development are all tied together with its goal of being an industry leader.”

With a Masters in Human Resources from the University of Westminster and 22 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Nina Lam has successfully made a career out of making people happy. From creating and implementing employee recognition programs to renovating an in-house staff restaurant, Nina shows dedication to creating the best possible environment for her employees. In her 10 years with Hakkasan Group, she has served as the Director of Human Resources for the UK, Europe, Middle East, and Asia, handling responsibilities such as the development of training programs and reforming the structure of Hakkasan Group’s HR department in London. A world traveler, Nina has dined at over 13 of Hakkasan Group’s venues across the map, and is truly an outstanding ambassador for the brand.

Q: What originally attracted you to Hakkasan Group?

It was love at first bite, as I remember distinctly my first experience dining at Hakkasan. The service I received was impeccable, and that coupled with my love of food and my familiarity with the brand motivated me to seek employment at Hakkasan Group.

I have always thought of Hakkasan Group as an excellent employer – a people-oriented culture, a focus on personal as well as business growth, and a specialization in learning and development are all tied together with its goal of being an industry leader. The opportunities Hakkasan Group has offered me over the last ten years have absolutely shaped my career and personal development.

Q: Why do you like working at Hakkasan Group?

I love and am passionate about the Hakkasan Group brand, but more importantly, the people I work with on a day-to-day basis make the difference – I enjoy coming to work each day and there is always something different to look forward to every day.

Q: What is your favorite Hakkasan Group venue and why?

I have been lucky enough to visit and dine at a number of venues within Hakkasan Group’s portfolio, including those in Las Vegas, New York, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Oslo, Mykonos and of course all of our venues here in London.

The experiences have all been amazing; however, my heart lies in the UK:  My favorite venues are Yauatcha Soho for lunchtime dim sum, and either Hakkasan Hanway Place or Sake no Hana for dinner.

Q: What is your most memorable Hakkasan Group moment?

Very shortly after Hakkasan Hanway Place opened its doors in 2001, despite the reservation demands, I miraculously managed to get a dinner reservation for a special occasion.

The ambience, food, drink and service delivery (hostesses and servers were elegantly floating in the background across the restaurant delivering exceptional service) were simply phenomenal and remarkable. The experience was so memorable that when Hakkasan Group was in search for a HR professional to head-up the London Office, I jumped at the opportunity.

My other most memorable experience was at Omnia Las Vegas – all I can say is “wow.” I also have to credit the security team for acting quickly when needed, making sure guests are looked after, and going above and beyond for their guests. No task was too much trouble for them.