From Family Roots to modern hospitality at Clink Hostels

Mark Roeberson, COO of Clink Hostels, represents a hospitality professional whose journey began in childhood and evolved into a career defined by passion, innovation, and operational excellence. With Clink’s expanding portfolio and ambitious refurbishments planned for 2024, Roeberson’s story offers insights into creating a successful, modern hostel brand.

A Hospitality Career Rooted in Family

Roeberson’s passion for hospitality began early, growing up with parents deeply embedded in the industry. “My dad was in hotels, and my mum worked for KLM as an airline stewardess,” he explains. “As kids, we’d play hide-and-seek in the hotels where my dad worked. There was something magical about it—I knew I wanted to be part of this world.”

At just 15, Roeberson started working in hotels, beginning as a kitchen porter and gradually moving through various roles. “I’ve done almost every job you can imagine in a hotel—waiting tables, front office, and beyond,” he says. This hands-on experience taught him a critical lesson: “It doesn’t matter what position someone holds; everyone deserves respect and recognition. Success comes from valuing the whole team.”

Learning from Early Experiences

Roeberson’s early career provided both inspiration and cautionary tales. “When you’ve been in entry-level roles, you see firsthand what works and what doesn’t,” he notes. One learning moment occurred during his time at a restaurant where tips from credit card payments were suddenly removed. “The decision caused a lot of frustration among staff, but it was poorly communicated. I realised then how important transparency and clear communication are in leadership.”

These experiences shaped Roeberson’s management philosophy: to foster open communication, value every team member, and create an environment where employees feel heard and appreciated.

Transforming Clink Hostels

Since joining Clink Hostels in September, Roeberson has taken on a dual role as COO and head of the commercial department. “Clink has grown significantly in the past decade—from one small London property to six locations,” he says. This rapid expansion has required a shift from a family-run operation to a more professionalised structure. “I’m helping the company evolve its processes to handle this new level of complexity.”

Clink’s latest addition, a Dublin property that opened in late 2023, marks a homecoming for the Irish family that founded the brand. “Dublin is a vibrant market, with a lot of activity driven by tech companies and tourism. Hotels are incredibly expensive, so our aim is to offer a high-quality, affordable alternative,” Roeberson explains.

Refurbishments on the Horizon

For Clink, 2024 will be a year of significant investment. “We’re planning major refurbishments for our London and Amsterdam properties, including our largest site,” Roeberson shares. These projects are designed to modernise the brand’s offerings while retaining the character that has made Clink successful.

Such refurbishments reflect a commitment to keeping up with evolving guest expectations. “Our demographic—primarily 18 to 25-year-olds—demands modern amenities and smart technology,” Roeberson notes. However, he cautions against over-investing in early-phase technology. “Tech is expensive and can quickly become outdated. The challenge is balancing innovation with practicality.”

A Commitment to Sustainability

Clink Hostels is deeply committed to sustainability, integrating ethical practices into its operations. From beach clean-ups to partnerships with ethical suppliers, the brand prioritises reducing its environmental footprint. “Every decision we make considers its impact. This isn’t about greenwashing; it’s about doing the right thing,” Roeberson emphasises.

He believes sustainability has a broader impact on staff morale. “Our employees take pride in being part of a company that genuinely cares about its footprint. That pride translates into better guest experiences and stronger commercial performance,” he says.

For other industry professionals looking to enhance their CSR efforts, Roeberson’s advice is simple: “Only do it if you genuinely believe in it. Authenticity is key—guests and employees alike can see through performative efforts.”

Adapting to Changing Travel Trends

Reflecting on the post-pandemic travel boom of 2023, Roeberson is cautiously optimistic about the future. “Last year was extraordinary—people were eager to check off their bucket lists. But with rising costs and inflation, I’m curious whether 2024 can match that momentum,” he says.

Despite potential economic challenges, Roeberson sees hostels as well-positioned to thrive. “Travelers still want meaningful experiences, but many are seeking affordable options. That’s where hostels like Clink come in, offering value without compromising quality.”

Advice for Aspiring Hoteliers

Roeberson’s journey from kitchen porter to COO offers valuable lessons for those building a career in hospitality. “Start at the bottom if you can. It gives you empathy and a better understanding of what it takes to run a successful operation,” he advises.

For leaders, his advice centres on fostering team collaboration and communication. “Listen to your staff, involve them in decisions, and create an environment where everyone feels valued. That’s the foundation of great hospitality.”

Looking Ahead

With ambitious plans for 2024, Clink Hostels is set to continue its growth while staying true to its core values. For Roeberson, the focus remains on refining operations, enhancing guest experiences, and maintaining the familial spirit that has defined the brand from the start.

“Clink began as a small family business, and that ethos is still at the heart of what we do,” he says. “As we grow, it’s about finding ways to stay connected to that heritage while embracing the future.”

Mark Roeberson’s leadership at Clink Hostels is a testament to the power of balancing tradition with innovation. By valuing team members, embracing sustainability, and responding to evolving market demands, he is helping shape a hospitality brand that is both grounded and forward-thinking—one that meets the needs of modern travellers without losing sight of its roots.