Cynera Rodricks

📄 Rutland Hall Hotel and Spa appointed James Hiley-Jones as non-executive director. With over 30 years in hospitality and as managing director at Greenclose Hotels, Hiley-Jones enhances operations at the 70-acre Rutland Water resort. The hotel features rooms, lodges, Blossoms restaurant, a 22-meter indoor pool, gym, and spa. His Freedom of the City of London award highlights his sector contributions, supporting Rutland Hall's strategic expansion.

🍳 Phil Kearsey has been appointed executive chef at Morston Hall in Norfolk, succeeding Galton Blackiston, who led since 1992. Kearsey, with 18 years of fine dining experience, has worked at The Waterside Inn, The French Laundry, and Pied à Terre. Morston Hall has held a Michelin star for over 25 years. The hotel, a 17th-century property, was acquired by Henry Elworthy in April 2025, planning a refurbishment in early 2026. Kearsey aims to highlight Norfolk produce.

🏨 Jess Counsell appointed general manager for Dedham in November 2025. She oversees Talbooth Restaurant, Talbooth House and Spa, and milsoms in Dedham, managing 27 bedrooms, Idle Waters cottage, and various dining and catering services. This appointment follows Geoff Hare's promotion and marks a leadership restructuring, uniting Dedham businesses under single management. Jess's career includes leadership at Talbooth Restaurant and completing the Master Innholders Aspiring Leaders Diploma in 2023. Paul Milsom praises her maturity and leadership.

📈 The Social Hub, led by CMO Trix van der Vleuten, enhances its leadership team in 2023, appointing Daniel Hernández Lyon as director of global communications. New roles include Charlie Ayers as head of brand and Rosa Dinnissen as director of global public affairs. Expanding in Europe, with sites in Glasgow, Rome, and Porto, it plans for Turin and Lisbon. Founded by Charlie MacGregor in Amsterdam, it operates over 10,000 rooms across 21 hubs in 18 cities with more than 1,000 employees.

📈 Auberge Collection appoints Jessica Martino Enan as chief commercial officer. Former Gucci executive, she'll drive global commercial strategy. The group, managing over 30 properties, plans expansions in London and Dallas by 2026, adding to recent openings in Florence and Geneva. Martino Enan aims to enhance luxury experiences and guide growth following a company rebrand. CEO Christian Clerc praises her luxury market expertise as vital for Auberge's future.

🏨 St Regis London will open in mid-2026 in Mayfair, marking the brand’s London debut. The hotel will have 195 rooms, including 64 suites. Marco Novella, with over 20 years in luxury hospitality, was appointed as general manager in 2024. Designed by Richmond International, the redevelopment includes two new floors and revamped public areas. Amenities feature a signature restaurant, a jazz bar, two spa suites, and butler service. This expands Marriott’s luxury presence in London.

🏨 Hand Picked Hotels appointed James Norman and Jean-Paul Wyburn as general managers of Nutfield Priory Hotel and Spa in Surrey and Bailbrook House Hotel in Bath. This is part of their strategy to enhance leadership across 21 UK and Channel Islands hotels. Nutfield Priory, a 60-room AA 4 Red Star hotel, and Bailbrook House, a grade II listed property, will benefit from their extensive experience, aiming to provide luxurious guest experiences.