Checking in at…Hotel Berlin, Berlin

Hotel Berlin, Berlin has been voted “Top 1 Independent Meeting Hotel in Europe”, and boasts more than 3,000 sqm of event space, making it perfect for conferences, meetings, fairs and exhibitions.

Pandox has invested greatly into the property over the years in order to capture its potential.

In 2022, we welcomed Jan Henningsen as the new General Manager. A native of northern Germany, Jan has an impressive track record for innovative leadership and a strong focus on guest experience.

Let’s hear his thoughts about what’s going on at the hotel.

Jan, what would you say are Hotel Berlin, Berlin's strengths?

Hotel Berlin, Berlin is one of the largest hotels in Berlin, allowing us to accommodate groups that will not fit into other hotels. We have also greatly benefited from the long-term planning and investments Pandox made over the years. We have a good location close to the Zoo and KaDeWe.

How does it stand out from the competition?

Both our rooms and public areas are unique. The rooms have individual room host who has written a welcome letter and is sharing his or her favorite spots in Berlin. When entering the hotel you will be welcomed by our 360-degree LED screen featuring Berlin based artists. We also have a unique ping pong club, an art club with over 40 member artists offering regular exhibitions and a skateboard club here at the hotel. These experiences help us bring in the locals and help create a true Berlin experience here at the hotel.

Pandox has invested a lot in the hotel in recent years. Tell us about the renovations and upgrades.

The renovation covering most of the rooms is very well received. The entire ground floor was completely re-done as well. All spaces now benefit from contemporary furniture and an impressive collection of photography and art from Berlin-based artists.

How do you work with talent management and leadership practices?

Hotel Berlin, Berlin has a loyal team. Pandox generously supported them during the covid crisis, and this allowed a better restart than other hotels that struggled to staff back up once business returned. We have established a positive work culture at our hotel. Everyone is speaking on a first name basis and open communication is encouraged. Regular employee opinion surveys help us identify areas that need improvement. We have established a very collaborative relationship with our local workers-council that allows us to make changes that require their consent. Pandox has also rolled out the Think Reverse training program that helps the team build and enhance a positive company culture that benefits both the team and the guests.

What are you looking forward to in the coming months?

The hotel's business has greatly improved from 2023 to 2024. The news of our transformation continues to spread; we are optimistic that we will continue to grow in the future.  

We have started a journey of quality improvement that will translate into better guest satisfaction and higher rates. Our efforts will be supported by an investment in our air conditioning system to solve the issue that is currently causing the most guest complaints.

Success is the best motivator, and the team is fired up to deliver a great 2025.