Welcome to the team to our recently appointed General Manager at MACq 01 Hotel and The Henry Jones Art Hotel, Josh O'Brien.
Having recently returned from Sydney, we’re excited to have Josh back in Hobart. Rachel Callen, Talent Acquisition Manager - Federal Hospitality, met with Josh over a coffee to welcome him to the team and have a chat.
Rachel: Josh, welcome. You’re newly appointed as the General Manager across MACq 01 Hotel and The Henry Jones Art Hotel. Let’s start with what inspired your move home to Hobart.
Josh: I grew up in Hobart and spent almost 20 years here, so it’s exciting to be back. But it was never about simply returning home, it was about finding the right opportunity. The role across MACq 01 and The Henry Jones felt like the perfect fit, combining my experience with an opportunity to contribute to two incredible properties.
Rachel: What was it about these two hotels that stood out to you?
Josh: I’ve loved MACq 01 since it opened. In fact, my partner and I stayed here during our wedding celebrations. For me, it represented how Tasmania had evolved while still feeling authentically Tasmanian. It wasn’t trying to be like every other hotel, it had its own identity and made me feel proud of where I came from.
The Henry Jones is equally special. It’s woven into the fabric of Hobart and has such rich history and character. Both properties are genuinely unique.
Rachel: How would you describe the personality of the hotels in 3 words?
Josh: Unique, genuine and calming.
There’s a real sense of calm across both properties. Whether you’re sitting in a room, on a balcony or enjoying the public spaces, there’s an atmosphere that encourages guests to slow down and relax.The people are equally important. Tasmanians are known for being genuine and welcoming, and that authenticity really shines through in these hotels.
Our teams are the heartbeat of our special properties, they make experiences memorable. It's a special role to lead the beautiful people and culture who join us for work each day.
Rachel: How would you describe your leadership style?
Josh: Open and curious.
When you join a new business, especially as a General Manager, it’s important not to arrive assuming you know everything. My focus remains on understanding the team, learning how things work and respecting what has come before. At the same time, I believe businesses should always be evolving. Even great organisations need to ask, “What’s next?” My role is to help people embrace change while bringing them along on the journey.
Rachel: What does great teamwork look like to you? How do you spot it each day?
Josh: For me, it starts with people genuinely wanting to be at work.
When team members feel respected, valued and heard, they enjoy contributing. Great teamwork isn’t about a checklist,it’s about creating an environment where people feel they belong and can do their best work together. It all starts with how we respect and treat each other, are we greeting each other warmly at the beginning of each shift, for example.
With no time to think too deeply about his answers, we asked Josh some rapid fire questions to continue getting to know him:
- Morning person or night owl? Morning person.
- Podcast or playlist? Playlist.
- If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be? Flying a helicopter.
- Art gallery or historical novel? Historical novel.
- If you could host a dinner with any three guests, who would they be? My Great Grand Mother, David Attenborough and Bear Grylls.
- If one song could describe your leadership style, what would it be? The Long Run by Eagles
- Who would you invite to dinner if you could invite any 3 people? My Great Grandmother, David Attenborough and Bear Grylls.
And, final question for you -
Rachel: What’s one thing you’d like your new team to know about you?
Josh: I want my team to be themselves. Whenever a new leader joins an organisation, there’s naturally some uncertainty. I’d want people to know they don’t need to be anyone other than themselves, that's what special.
Authenticity matters, particularly in hospitality. I value people who are genuine and bring their whole selves to work. That’s what creates great teams and great guest experiences.
