Matt Mawtus on Leading Hide: Staffing, Hospitality as a Career, and Adapting to Change

Join Andy Downton as he sits down with Matt Mawtus, General Manager of London’s acclaimed Hide, for a candid conversation about the realities and rewards of modern hospitality management.Key Highlights:- Hide’s Evolution: Matt shares the journey of transitioning Hide from two restaurants into one unified concept, and how 2024 became a year of learning and adaptation.- **Staffing & Brexit:** Insight into how Brexit has impacted recruitment, and why Matt believes the industry must do more to promote hospitality as a respected, long-term career for British youth.- Work-Life Balance & Staff Wellbeing: The conversation explores the shift towards fair pay, overtime, and healthier work-life balance, which are crucial for attracting and retaining talent in today’s hospitality sector.- Navigating Economic Challenges: Matt discusses the importance of cost control, smart staffing, and operational frugality to weather economic uncertainty in 2025.- Guest Experience: Discover Matt’s philosophy on making every guest feel welcome, whether they’re spending £5 or £500, and the importance of diffusing guest anxiety in high-end settings.- Team Growth & Looking Ahead: Matt reflects on staff retention, internal promotions, and his excitement for further developing Hide’s wine list and guest offerings in 2025.Packed with practical advice and behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is essential listening for hospitality professionals and anyone passionate about the future of the industry. Tune in for leadership insights, industry trends, and a celebration of the people and principles that make Hide a standout in London dining.