The Australian hotelier is the managing director of the exclusive $2 billion Peninsula London where the cost of an overnight stay begins at $2,000.
It has been a wonderful rise up the ladder for the daughter of the well-known Vodusek family of Yarrawonga.
Sonja’s hospitality career started in housekeeping, advancing to director of rooms, to hotel management to now being the one in charge.
Ms Vodusek has had a long-standing commitment to The Peninsula Hotels which began in 2010, when she joined The Peninsula New York as Hotel Manager. Thereafter, she held the position of General Manager at The Peninsula Manila, and then took on the role of General Manager of The Peninsula Tokyo in 2015.
“For me, it’s all about the people,” she said. “I really enjoy connecting with others, whether they are guests or colleagues. Everyone has an interesting story to tell.
“Staff always make a hotel. You can have the most glamorous product in the world, but if guests don’t feel well looked after, it’s never going to be a good hotel.”
Sonya received a ‘Freedom of the City of London’ award in a ceremony at the Guildhall London with nine other hoteliers on Friday, October 20.
“As a ‘freeman’ I am finally allowed to herd sheep on London Bridge!” she jokingly told friends back in Yarrawonga.
Sonja has also been awarded Master Innholder status, a coveted recognition awarded to a select group of industry leaders in the United Kingdom each year.
This prestigious title is given to those who have proven themselves a leading force in the hotel industry, setting the standard for the next generation of hospitality talent.
Regarded as one of the highest honours in hotel management, this accolade recognises Ms Vodusek's achievements and contributions to the industry.
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