In the latest of a regular series, we find out what makes some of the leading figures in the serviced apartment and aparthotel sectors tick. This time, we speak to Ken Brown, vice president, global solutions at Furnished Quarters.
• The best part of my job is…
I love that I get to be a problem solver and find solutions to difficult challenges brought to FQ by our clients.
• The most challenging part of my job is…
The most challenging, but also rewarding, part of my job, and our industry as a whole, is that we often intersect with our guests at a time of significant change. They’ve frequently just moved their family, taken a new job or even started medical treatment. In managing their new home, we have to be attune to their needs and challenges and often get to know them in quite a personal way.
• My biggest achievement in business is…
I’m proud to be contributing to the continued growth and success of my family’s business. I’m the 2nd generation at Furnished Quarters and we’re in year 21, but my family’s history of entrepreneurship goes back to my Great Grandfather and Grandfather who had a furniture store which lasted 70+ years.
• If I wasn’t working in our industry I would like to have been a…
Before joining FQ, I worked in Sales/Marketing at Island Def Jam records. Outside of work, I love sports and music so definitely something having to do with either.
• The best piece of advice anyone ever gave me was…
“Spend time on what’s important to you”
• If I could tell my 18-year old self one thing it would be…
Don’t be afraid to push yourself. You can accomplish much more then might seemingly be possible at first glance.
• The person I admire most in hospitality is…
Steve Ells. I have Chipotle for lunch two or three times per week and I admire how they have been able to maintain quality as they’ve scaled from a local to global company.
• The person I admire most in history is…
If forced to choose one I’ll say Paul McCartney. His creativity was limitless but he channeled it into music which was seemingly simple, but in actuality deeply rich and layered. It has brought joy and comfort to many people.
• I am surprisingly good at…
I’ve played drums since I was little and have picked up piano along the way. I’ve played in lots of bands over the years and always try to have an outlet in my life where I’m playing music.
• I am surprisingly bad at…
I’ll admit I’m not very handy and can’t change a tyre!
• My perfect day off would be…
Spent exploring a new city or taking in a sporting event.
