Bloc magazine summer 25.

62 Meeting the Bloc team. How did you come to work at Bloc? I actually found Bloc through an online job board. At the time, I was looking for a role with fewer hours—my previous job was starting to take a toll, especially with a one-year-old at home. I needed a better balance, not just for me, but for my family too. When I went for the interview, I was surprised to find the manager was someone I already knew, who I hadn't seen in years. It felt more like catching up than a formal interview, but with real purpose behind it. We remembered each other’s work ethic, and it just clicked. Joining Bloc felt right—it wasn’t just a job, it was a better fit for my life. Honestly, it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. How does hotel work differ to other jobs you've had? Hotel work is fast-paced and team-driven. When it’s busy, you rely heavily on each other, and you have to think on your feet. As Deputy Head Housekeeper, I act as the bridge between management and the team, turning goals into action while also representing the team’s needs. It takes strong people skills, diplomacy, and the ability to adapt quickly. What are the best bits about becoming part of the Bloc team? Working at Bloc has been a fantastic experience. The emphasis on work-life balance is rare in hospitality and really appreciated. The culture is collaborative and guest-focused, with innovation and continuous improvement built into the everyday. Being part of the team means more than just doing your job, it’s about creating great guest experiences and growing alongside people who genuinely care. What are the most important aspects of your role? One of the key parts of my role is providing steady leadership and support when the Head Housekeeper is away, ensuring everything runs smoothly day to day. I also help with onboarding and ongoing training for the team, making sure we maintain high standards of cleanliness, efficiency, and guest service. Health and safety is another crucial area, making sure all procedures are followed and that the environment is safe for both guests and staff. I also support with safety training and risk assessments, helping to build a strong safety culture within the department too. What has been your greatest accomplishment at Bloc? Progressing from Supervisor to Deputy has been my proudest achievement. It reflects my hard work and adaptability, but what means most is the strong bond I’ve built with the team. Working with such supportive colleagues has made the journey incredibly rewarding. What is the biggest challenge you have faced? Balancing full-time work while raising my three-year- old daughter has been a big challenge. It was hard at first not being around as much as I wanted, but I truly enjoy my work, and over time, I’ve found a rhythm that allows me to give my best both at home and at Bloc. It’s made me more focused, resilient, and proud of what I’ve achieved. Who inspires you and why? My daughters are my biggest inspiration and everything I give to them, I learned from the woman I admire most: my mum. What is your most memorable guest interaction? I don’t often interact directly with guests, but the small moments stay with you, like finding a thank-you note in a room or a child’s drawing. It’s those little gestures that remind you that you're part of something that makes someone feel welcome and cared for. In this issue we introduce Bloc Gatwick's Deputy Head Housekeeper, Irina Cristina Ciupercea.