Human Resources

📈 Dave Allen has been appointed as the programme director for HIT Scotland's new executive and leadership development initiatives. These programs aim to enhance leadership skills, operational performance, and strategic planning for senior hospitality executives in Scotland. Covering topics like business growth, finance, and AI, they address current industry pressures. Allen, with over 30 years of experience, will lead these efforts to foster a new generation of hospitality leaders and drive strategic transformation in the sector.

💸 Chestnut Group secured £20m from Metro Bank for expansion, acquiring Titchwell Manor Hotel in Norfolk and allowing for future acquisitions. The finance includes a £10m revolving credit line and a £10m commercial loan, bringing Metro Bank's total support to £50m. The group operates 26 pubs and hotels in the East of England. The expansion aids the local economy and job creation. Charley O’Toole was appointed as Chestnut's new chief of staff to lead organizational design and strategic goals.

🗺 Brad Anderson of Hilton is scaling Hilton Honors to over 226 million members worldwide. Peggy Roe at Marriott International transforms loyalty into experiences with initiatives like “Member’s Day.” Scott Long at American Airlines evolves frequent flyer programs into revenue drivers. Cecilie Nybø Carlsen of Norwegian makes loyalty transparent with CashPoints valued as currency. Andrew Harrison-Chinn at Dragonpass extends loyalty into lifestyle, showing benefits beyond flights and hotels. Loyalty now emphasizes experiences, emotions, and community.

🌊 Karen Kurosawa has been appointed as director of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) at OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group. She will manage environmental data and enhance sustainability goals across OUTRIGGER’s global properties. Kurosawa will focus on the OUTRIGGER Zone, a conservation initiative for marine ecosystems. Her previous role was at CDP Reporter Services in New York, advising Fortune 500 companies on environmental frameworks. Monica Salter highlighted ESG's central role in OUTRIGGER's operations.

🏨 Lee Goodman has been appointed as the general manager of the Clarion Charlecote Pheasant Hotel in Warwickshire. With 20 years in hospitality, he previously managed locations in Kenilworth, Knowle, and Birmingham. The hotel, dating back to the 16th century, recently refurbished 40 guest rooms with a Shakespeare theme, enhancing its 70-room offering. Now under the Choice Hotels EMEA brand, it aims to attract both UK and international guests with its historic charm and modern amenities.

📈 Lily Wecker became CEO of Aethos on October 1, 2025. She will lead Aethos's international expansion in Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Aethos's new flagship, Aethos London Shoreditch, follows the launch of Aethos Mallorca. The group operates in London, Lisbon, Ericeira, Mallorca, Milan, Monterosa, Saragano, Sardinia, and Corsica. Previously, Wecker held roles at Zetland Capital and Mandarin Oriental, and she has an MBA from Harvard. Founded in 2018, Aethos blends hotels and private member clubs.

🏨 Cedar Court Hotels, Yorkshire’s largest independent hotel group, appoints Colin Charles as director of people and culture, enhancing workforce development. Over the past year, increased investment in people initiatives aids recruitment, retention, and career progression. Charles introduces a “culture summit” and recruits culture ambassadors. Cedar Court, with properties in Bradford, Harrogate, Huddersfield, and Wakefield, emphasizes “Proper Yorkshire Hospitality” and fostering a supportive workplace in the hospitality sector.

🛌 RBH Hospitality Management has appointed Lauren Sargent as group HR director. Sargent, with over 11 years in hospitality HR, joins from Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland. She will oversee talent strategy at RBH, which manages over 50 hotels. RBH, a leading UK independent hotel management firm with 25+ years of experience, partners with major brands like Accor, Hilton, IHG, Marriott, and Wyndham. Her role aligns with RBH's values and culture.

🏡 Ron Hassani is appointed as general manager at Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound, bringing over 35 years of experience. John Taffin, now general manager at Great Wolf Lodge Maryland, led a $40 million renovation at Grand Mound. Jordan Austin-Harris, with 25 years in hospitality, becomes general manager at Great Wolf Lodge Webster. Great Wolf Resorts opened new locations in Webster, Texas (August 2024), Naples, Florida (September 2024), and Mashantucket, Connecticut (May 2025).