Human Resources

🍳 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.

🌍 Kara Wallace, after 17 years at Royal Caribbean, was promoted to CMO, leading a brand evolution and gaining 7.5M+ followers. Caroline Clayton, CMO at American Airlines, is modernizing AA through initiatives like the “Going for Great” campaign. Raja Rajamannar at Mastercard is integrating payments with travel experiences, highlighted by a recent Formula One event in Singapore. Alex Schellenberger, at Mandarin Oriental, focuses on building emotional connections. Mark Weinstein at Hilton Worldwide is enhancing personalized experiences globally.

📈 Christine Sikes has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer at Direct Travel. With over 35 years in the travel industry and 11 years at Direct Travel, she will focus on service execution, efficiency, and profitable growth. Formerly the Executive VP of Customer Experience, Sikes aims to enhance client service and operational efficiency. Her previous roles include VP positions at CWT, managing U.S. Military and Government client relationships.

🏨 The Kessler Collection partners with Highgate to form a management platform, Kessler Hospitality. Highgate will manage Kessler properties such as Casa Monica Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District, and Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville. Kessler staff will join Highgate’s new division, blending Kessler’s creativity with Highgate’s operational expertise to enhance luxury hospitality standards.

🏨 Crescent Hotels & Resorts has been chosen to manage The Westin Great Southern Columbus, a historic hotel in downtown Columbus, Ohio. Originally built in 1897, the hotel is owned by Whitestone Companies. It features 188 guestrooms and suites, alongside over 13,000 square feet of meeting space. Located near key attractions like the Ohio Statehouse and the Brewery District, it also houses Bar Cicchetti, an Italian restaurant. This transition enhances Crescent's footprint in the Columbus area.

🏨 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.

💻 Charlie Ayers, Rosa Dinnissen, and Shirley Kind are now part of the Amsterdam-based Social Hub's newly organized marketing team to enhance visibility. This B Corp-certified company has 21 hubs in 18 European cities, boasting over 10,000 rooms and 1,000 employees. With plans to expand in Turin and Lisbon, the Social Hub, founded by Charlie MacGregor, combines hotel, student, and coworking spaces, aiming for consistent brand recognition across Europe.