Get to know the employees at Menai Holiday Cottages, who are always here to support you no matter what!
Let’s delve into the office to discover everyone’s hobbies, interests and what they do in their spare time…
Oliver McRae: Owner Experience Manager
Oliver joined Sykes in June 2019 as part of the Property Onboarding team and worked his way up to Manager in 2021, leading multiple teams focused on different areas across the UK. When the opportunity to join Menai Holidays came along, he jumped at the opportunity, “It felt like the perfect chance to develop further and work in a place that means so much to me”.
Oliver spent most of his childhood holidays in North Wales, so the area holds a lot of sentimental value to him and is passionate about helping others create those same unforgettable experiences.
Day-to-day, Oliver’s role involves supporting the team, strategising, and overseeing the smooth running of Menai. Oliver says “It’s a varied role that keeps me on my toes and gives me the chance to make a real difference for our owners and guests”.
We asked Oliver what he loves most about Menai and who would he swap roles with for a day?
“Menai has a strong sense of community and the pride we take in showcasing the beauty of North Wales. If I could swap roles for a day, it would be with Osian, our Property Consultant. He gets to visit all the new properties that come on board and spends his days exploring some absolutely stunning locations, what a dream!”
We also asked Oliver where his favourite place in North Wales is? “My favourite North Wales destination, it has to be Abersoch. I spent many summers there as a child and still visit regularly. I particularly love the coastal path between Machroes Beach and Porth Ceiriad. This spot is so special to me that I even proposed to my partner there, so it will always hold a very special place in my heart”.
Salie Williams: Owner Success Manager
Salie Williams is the Owner Success Manager at Menai Holidays, supporting the account management team and property owners across Bangor and Pwllheli. She loves working with Team Menai, especially traveling around North Wales to visit stunning properties. If she could swap roles for a day, she’d choose Jake, the maintenance man, as she enjoys hands-on challenges.
After work, Salie unwinds with her dogs, pub quizzes, bingo, or karaoke. She’s a fan of ‘90s classics like Father Ted and Blackadder. If given the chance, she’d have dinner with her late Nain and Taid, who taught her the value of hard work. Her favourite North Wales getaway is Lake Vyrnwy, where she enjoys the peaceful, off-grid atmosphere.
A lifelong animal lover, Salie once dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. Now, she channels her passion into traveling, exploring new cultures, and discovering great food. Her dream destinations? Koh Samui or the Exumas—especially to visit Pig Island and spend a day on the beach with wild pigs!
Amie Bell: Account Manager
Amie is an Account Manager at Menai Holidays, where she enjoys the unique perk of bringing her dog to work. If she could switch roles for a day, she’d choose to be Jonty, the maintenance man, for the variety his role brings. After a busy day, she unwinds by getting outdoors with her dog, and in the summer, she loves paddleboarding at Four Mile Bridge.
Her favourite TV show is The Goldbergs, and if she could have dinner with anyone, it would be Winston Churchill, admiring both his intelligence and eccentricity. Her favourite place in North Wales is the inland sea at Four Mile, a spot she loves year-round, no matter the weather.
As a child, Amie dreamed of becoming a mechanic, but now her hobbies include sea swimming, running, and weightlifting. If she could travel anywhere, it would be to St Helena, where her family is from; a remote destination currently only accessible by postal boat, making it a truly unique adventure.
Emma Evans: Account Manager
Emma Evans is an Account Manager at Menai Holidays, spending her days sending emails, chatting with property owners, and sharing plenty of laughs with Simon at the Pwllheli office. She loves the camaraderie with her colleagues and enjoys getting out on visits to see the incredible holiday cottages.
After work, Emma unwinds by spending quality time with her children before bedtime. She’s a big movie fan, with favourites including The Sweetest Thing, Moulin Rouge, Chicago, and Walk the Line. Her favourite places to visit in North Wales are Borth-y-Gest and Beddgelert, both known for their charm and beauty.
As a child, Emma dreamed of being a pop star, but now she enjoys being a mum, socializing, dining out with friends, taking holidays, and walking her dogs. If she could travel anywhere, she’d choose Bali, drawn to its stunning scenery and serene atmosphere.
Louisa Williams: Account Manager
Louisa is an Account Manager at Menai Holidays, handling owner queries via phone and email. She loves working with her supportive team and would be curious to experience a day in the marketing department.
After work, she unwinds by watching a series—Below Deck being a favourite. If she could have dinner with anyone, it would be her late grandparents for one last meal together.
Her favourite spot in North Wales is Newborough, known for its beautiful beach and forest walks. As a child, she dreamed of being an air hostess. Outside of work, she enjoys long walks and spending time with friends and family. If she could travel anywhere, she’d choose Bali for its stunning beaches and warm weather.
Emily Lewtas: Account Manager
Emily is an Account Manager at Menai Holidays, assisting owners with queries via phone and email. She loves being part of the team and going to visit the amazing holiday cottages that Menai has.
Emily would love to swap roles for a day with the Property Consultant team. “I would love to go and meet new potential owners and see their beautiful homes and also get a chance to see the beautiful North Wales”
After work, she enjoys walking around Penrhos Coastal Park. Real Housewives is her go-to TV show, and if she could have dinner with anyone, it would be her late Grandma and Poppa for one more big family gathering.
Her favourite place in North Wales is Trearddur Bay, where she loves walking along the coastal path to Rhoscolyn, and ending up in the White Eagle pub.
Outside of work, she enjoys walking, watching sports, and catching up with friends over coffee. If she could travel anywhere, she’d choose Australia and New Zealand for the beautiful scenery and a chance to enjoy some sunshine.
Simon Williams: Account Manager
Simon Williams is an Account Manager at Menai, where his day typically begins with opening Outlook, checking his inbox, reviewing tasks, and responding to messages. Throughout the day, he handles incoming calls and ensures that client needs are met efficiently. His role requires organization and responsiveness, but what truly makes his job enjoyable is working with the team. The collaboration within the workplace create a positive environment that Simon values deeply.
Outside of work, Simon enjoys unwinding with a glass of wine, spending time in the garden, or hitting the golf course. When it comes to entertainment, his favourite TV show is Virdee, a series that resonates with him.
Simon’s personal life is shaped by meaningful experiences and connections. If he could have dinner with anyone, it would be his late brother, who passed away a few years ago. In North Wales, his favourite place to visit is Llandanwg Beach, where he likely finds tranquility and a connection to nature. As a child, he once dreamed of becoming a barrister, a reflection of his early ambitions. Today, his hobbies include golf, photography, and gardening—activities that allow him to relax and express his creativity. If he could travel anywhere, he’d return to Thailand, a place that clearly holds special memories for him.
Lauren Roberts: Local Supplier Lead
Lauren is the Local Supplier Lead at Menai Holidays, her day consists of helping property owners find suppliers and managing supplier queries, offering to owners the managed service and being the first point of call for house keepers.
She loves working with her team, and says “I love the team, everyone is so helpful and supportive and I love that we all have a good laugh”
If Lauren could swap roles with someone for a day it would be an Account Manager, to gain an insight and learn their day-to-day interactions and experiences.
After work, she unwinds by getting into her pyjamas and relaxing on the sofa with her favourite TV show, Grey’s Anatomy.
Her go-to spot in North Wales is Aber Falls (especially in the snow!). Another favourite is Betws-Y-Coed, “it’s so peaceful and has great walks and the best cafes for a post walk cuppa!”
Sarah Breeze: Property Services Coordinator
Sarah is the Property Services Coordinator at Menai and her day to day activities include, ensuring the managed service properties are receiving the full provision and services that are on offer.
We asked Sarah what she loves about working for Menai? “Being in an office is great, but I love being out and about visiting properties. Primarily because of all the amazing views and scenery we have on our doorstep, it makes you feel glad to be alive! We are so lucky”
Sarah would love to swap roles with the Marketing team for a day, she would want an unlimited budget (wouldn’t we all!) and she would “have Menai plastered everywhere”
Her all time favourite walk in Wales has to be the coastal path wale between Benllech and Moelfre on Anglesey. “Particularly on a hot summers day when the beaches are packed, you can hear the far off sound of children playing, it is so atmospheric and magical”
Dave: The Office Dog
Dave, the beloved office dog at Menai Holidays, takes his role as the team’s happiness officer very seriously. His job is to brighten everyone’s day and, of course, receive plenty of pets. His favourite part of work? Not being left at home and having an endless supply of ball throws. If given the chance to switch roles, he wouldn’t because, as he says, he’s already living the dream!
After a busy day, Dave loves to unwind in his cwt with his teddies. His favourite movie is The Grinch, and when it comes to dinner, he’s happy to dine with anyone as long as they share. His favourite place in North Wales is Cae Mwd in Valley, where he gets to explore and play.
As a pup, he dreamed of being a working dog, and his hobbies reflect that; running, bike rides, playing ball, and enjoying a trip to the pub for crisps. If he could travel anywhere, he’d head straight for the mountains, ready to climb to his heart’s content.
Luke Edwards: Regional Brand Marketing Manager
Luke Edwards leads the marketing team at Menai Holidays. From social media and blogs to events and Google Ads, the ever-changing nature of marketing keeps the job exciting. What he loves most about Menai is the fantastic team, who make every day enjoyable. If he could swap roles for a day, he’d choose either Marketing Director Chris Algar or Chief Commercial Officer James Shaw to gain a new perspective on leadership.
After work, Luke spends time with his two boys, Henry and Charlie, though any parent knows that’s not exactly unwinding! He also enjoys watching house renovation shows. His favourite movie is The Shawshank Redemption, while Gavin and Stacey are his go-to TV series. If given the chance to have dinner with anyone, he’d choose Sir Alex Ferguson, admiring his leadership and winning mentality.
Luke’s favourite spot in North Wales is Mynydd Twr (Holyhead Mountain), offering breathtaking views of Anglesey, Snowdonia, and the Llyn Peninsula. Growing up, he dreamed of being a professional athlete, with a passion for all sports. Now, his hobbies revolve around being a dad, from football games to swimming lessons. He’s also a food lover, always on the lookout for great restaurants and local breweries. If he could travel anywhere, it would be New Zealand—it’s been on his bucket list for years. With a company presence there, he jokingly offers himself as a volunteer for a visit!
Elin Jones: Regional Marketing Executive
Elin Jones is a Marketing Executive at Menai Holidays, managing social media content, blog posts, SEO, Facebook ads, events, and a range of other marketing projects. She loves the variety of her work, which has helped her learn a lot, and she’s grateful for the fantastic people she’s met along the way. If she could swap roles with anyone for a day, she’d choose Dave the office dog – who wouldn’t want to spend the day chasing a ball?
After work, Elin unwinds by taking her dog, Eti, for a walk, followed by cosy sofa snuggles. She’s a big fan of Shrek and is eagerly awaiting the fifth movie. If given the chance to have dinner with anyone, she’d pick Sam Fender; partly because he seems like a laugh and partly because she fancies him! Her favourite place in North Wales is Deganwy Beach at sunset, where she enjoys the peaceful atmosphere.
As a child, Elin dreamed of working at the RSPCA so she could spend her days with animals. Now, she stays active by running, playing football, and hiking, while also enjoying gigs and raves with friends; striking the perfect balance between fitness and fun. If she could travel anywhere, she’d take a trip around Central and South America, especially Patagonia, where a small town still speaks Welsh.
Toria Hope: Senior Regional Marketing Executive
Toria is a Senior Regional Marketing Executive, her role consists of supporting the marketing team and fulfilling marketing activities such as offline advertising and events. What she loves most about the Menai team is that everyone remains positive and up for a laugh, even on the hard days!
Toria would love to swap roles for a day with the account managers, “I always hear how supportive and informative the team are to owners, I would love the give it a go for a day and see if I could be as impactful”.
Afterwork Toria starts her other job, being a mum! Playing, cooking and caring for her little boy, Finn. On weekends you will find Toria out walking with her family, in a Pilates studio or heading to Cafe Notos in Rhosneigr (her favourite spot on Anglesey).
If Toria could go anywhere in the world it would be back to the Maldives, for the clear blue water and epic snorkelling.
Hopefully after reading through this you feel like you know us all better!
No problem is ever too much when you need something from our team, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.
Phone: 01248 665140
