Name: Thomas Kochs
Title: Managing director
Company, city: Corinthia Hotel London
Number of employees: 500
Recent project: Collaborating with Tom Kerridge to open Kerridge’s Bar & Grill and to debut the new London and Garden suites
First job: I worked in a restaurant in my hometown.
Little-known fact about you: I enjoy cooking and often host dinner parties. I’m not fond of baking, but I take pleasure in preparing meals for friends.
Your Business
What innovations/initiatives do you foresee in the industry over the next years? Technology will continue to reshape hospitality, and at Corinthia London we constantly integrate new systems and upgrades to improve the guest experience. At the same time, we are careful to preserve the warm, personal service that guests expect from a luxury hotel.
Best career advice you’ve received: Don’t rush career progression; gaining broad experience and developing skills over time will better position you for long-term success.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the field? Determine what you enjoy, commit to learning as much as possible, and aim to become exceptional in the area you choose.
Thomas Koch as a Traveler
Favorite travel memory or story: Traveling through South America stands out for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural variety.
One travel tip you cannot live without: Bring the right chargers for your devices and pack an extra change of clothes to handle delays or lost luggage.
Best advice for business travelers: Whenever possible, explore the cultural side of your destination. Making time to experience local sights, food and traditions adds depth to any business trip.
About Corinthia Hotel London
The hotel recently unveiled 11 new suites; tell us about them and what other amenities attract premium travelers to Corinthia Hotel London.
We have introduced 11 new suites split between the London and Garden categories, designed to make intelligent use of space so guests can relax and work in comfort. These suites complement our existing River and Penthouse options and reflect our commitment to continuous enhancement. The London suites are modern and light with contemporary design, privacy-focused layouts, distinct functional areas and adjoining bathrooms. The Garden suites face the hotel courtyard and draw inspiration from classic English gardens, offering tranquil living spaces often centered around inviting fireplaces. Our butler service further elevates the guest experience by delivering attentive, personalized care.
Tell us more about the food and beverage offerings available.
When I arrived at Corinthia, one of my tasks was to refresh the main restaurant, previously Massimo. From my first meeting with Tom Kerridge it was clear we would collaborate well. His Michelin-starred approach has helped shape Kerridge’s Bar & Grill into a relaxed brasserie focusing on rotisserie-cooked meats and vegetables, combining British ingredients with modern techniques. The bar at Kerridge’s is a lively destination for pre-dinner gatherings and post-work cocktails.
The Bassoon is another distinctive venue at Corinthia, evoking a 1920s, New Orleans-inspired atmosphere. Led by award-winning head bartender Marcis Dzelzainis, the team crafts inventive cocktails that blend classic New Orleans traditions with contemporary creativity.
Our afternoon tea in the Crystal Moon Lounge remains a hallmark: a wide selection of fine teas accompanied by traditional scones, pastries, cakes and seasonal finger sandwiches.
What can travelers expect from the hotel in 2019?
Guests can continue to expect the high level of service and attention to detail that Corinthia London is known for, alongside ongoing enhancements to our food and beverage offering, service standards and accommodation options. We remain focused on refining the guest experience across every touchpoint.