As Kathryn Cooper retires after 38 years of remarkable service at the Royal Air Force Club, we were proud to celebrate her extraordinary career with a special event this afternoon. On Thursday, 15th August 2024, colleagues,and Trustees both past and present, gathered in the Cowdray Lounge to pay tribute to Kathryn and wish her well as she embarks on the next chapter of her life.

Kathryn's journey with the Royal Air Force Club began nearly four decades ago as the Assistant Food and Beverage Manager. Over the years, she embraced a variety of roles, each one adding a new dimension to her career and to the Club itself. From Assistant Conference and Banqueting Manager, House Manger, Personnel and Training Manager, Assistant Club Secretary and finally as Club Manager from 2015 to 2024.

One of her most challenging roles was Personnel and Training Manager, a position that tasked her to create a new department from the ground up, Kathryn's focus on people became the cornerstone of her career. "Every job that I’ve had since, I’ve focused on people first," she reflected. Her efforts led to the evolution of the department into what is now known as People and Culture, the home of recruitment, retention and staff wellbeing, a critical component of the Club’s operations today.

The celebration was not only a time to reflect on Kathryn's achievements but also an opportunity to express gratitude for her unwavering dedication. In recognition of her nearly 40 years of service, the Board of Trustees were pleased to present Kathryn with Honorary Life Membership, a fitting tribute to a woman whose contributions left an indelible mark on the Club.

Kathryn's impact on the Royal Air Force Club is seen physically as well as culturally, Kathryn played a significant part in many of the Club's building transformations, with the refurbishment of the squash courts being her proudest achievement. This project, which had been discussed for years, eventually made way for a new fitness centre, business suite, office, and 17 additional bedrooms alongside rebuilding the laundry area and staff canteen.

Since taking on the role of Club Manager in 2015, Kathryn has been a key component in helping the Club achieve the high standard of service we are known for, as well as navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic. Her leadership has been instrumental in maintaining the Club's reputation and ensuring that the needs of the members were always at the forefront.

As she prepared to retire, Kathryn offered valuable advice to the next generation of leaders at the Royal Air Force Club: "Enjoy your job. Lead by example. Treat people as you wish to be treated yourself. Think of the people and remember your team are human beings with lives. Remember we’re a Club, not a hotel, and the members are the most important asset we’ve got."

Kathryn also reflected on the enduring relationships she built with many of the Club's members over the years. "The members are friendly, they respect the staff and are interested in what we have to say, and the culture really is a home from home," she said. "The history that makes the Club so special is maintained not just through the building but through the Members stories."

As she bid farewell to the Royal Air Force Club, Kathryn shared that she would miss "the people and the place" the most. Now the time has finally come for her retirement, she looks forward to moving house, putting her feet up, and finally finding time to relax and read—something she had only ever done on holiday.

In her final message to the Members and staff of the Club, Kathryn expressed her heartfelt gratitude: "Thank you for letting me be part of an incredible place for nearly 39 years. I’ll miss you all, and I hope that the Club will continue to go from strength to strength."

As Kathryn retires, she leaves behind a legacy of excellence, dedication, and warmth that will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps. we were honoured to celebrate her career and to extend our deepest thanks for her outstanding service. We wish Kathryn all the best in her retirement and look forward to seeing her continue to be a part of the Club as an Honorary Life Member.