Even in my slim-fitting Pierre Cardin navy suit, I feel slightly underdressed among the trendy Londoners gathered in the swanky lounges of South Place Hotel. Then, in steps the immaculately groomed and urbane Dean Culpan, perfectly on point. A son of South African soil, Dean’s hospitality career began as a commis waiter at Johannesburg Carlton Hotel while completing his BSc at WITS. A later introduction to industry icon Sol Kersner led to a position in Sun City, including donning khaki and taking guests on the classic South African safari. With the peripatetic lifestyle of working in lodges and hotels came the eventual search for a place to call home. As a British passport holder, London was an option and one that he embraced.
In the late 90s, there was little reference to South Africa, and even with his extensive experience, he had to climb the ladder once again – his first role being the night manager at London’s Tower Hotel. Further prestigious positions included Director of Operations at Harrods Estates and a term at The Mandrake, touted as one of the finest boutique hotels. Most recently came the opportunity to join as General Manager for South Place where we are now sitting – the first and only hotel in the renowned restaurant group D&D.
Dean is a raconteur of note as he weaves various stories through the narrative of his celebrated career. And those stories ranged from hilarious to near unbelievable. It seems there has been little this man has not done: he has a pop album to his name (including a song that charted for a few weeks), swam for Australia (during a school exchange programme where he represented Australia in World Swimming) and is even the author of a grooming blog.
Our time has run out and I still have countless questions (and I can tell there are myriad stories still to be shared). Thankfully Dean ends with a hearty “Let’s get dinner soon and chat some more” – an invitation genuinely given with a familiar dose of South African warmth.
London with Dean
Your go-to breakfast spot? Fallow, St James
A memorable London first? Ronnie Scott’s
Your favourite weekend getaway spot? Burford in the Cotswolds
A hidden shopping gem? Columbia Road
Your favourite park/green space in London? Lincoln Inn
An unmissable London cultural experience? Anything by British choreographer Matthew Bourne
What do you miss most from back in South Africa when you’re in London? Direct People.
