Human Resources

🍳 Noel McMeel appointed executive head chef at Bedford Hotel Belfast by Focus Hotels in 2025. He'll oversee culinary operations and introduce a chef training program. Known for designing the G8 Summit menu, McMeel aims to make the hotel a Belfast culinary landmark. General Manager Mike Gatt emphasizes McMeel's alignment with the hotel’s ethos. The Bedford is managed by Focus Hotels.

🏢 Antoine Dubois joins Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer as a key figure in Monaco’s largest employer. In 1863, this company created the Monte-Carlo district. Now, Dubois aims to boost growth in strategic segments by enhancing customer experiences. Leading sales, marketing, and revenue management, he prioritizes personalized luxury through service quality and digital tools. Reporting to the CEO and Deputy Chairman, Dubois emphasizes collaboration and innovation with his proactive team.

🏠 Antoine Louis-Tramoni joins Marriott International as Director of Development for France and the Benelux, supporting portfolio growth and advising investment partners. With over 10 years in hospitality and hotel real estate, he strengthens a team led by Alexandra Goguet and Anahita Perineau. Marriott operates 130+ hotels across 30 brands in the region, focusing on urban developments. The appointment aligns with the brand's expansion goals in Western Europe and the EMEA branded residences segment.

📈 September 2025, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a rise in unemployment to 4.4% despite 119,000 new jobs added. Restaurants gained 68,000 jobs in Q3, marking the strongest six-month gain, though job growth remains sluggish. Employment in eating and drinking places is up 144,000 jobs (1.2%) from pre-pandemic levels. Limited-service roles increased 23% since February 2020. However, consumer spending in the industry is slowing, with expectations of continued decline into early 2026.

📍 Kimpton Ashbel New York–Park Avenue is set to open in January 2026 at 70 Park Avenue, Midtown Manhattan. Brenda Correa has been appointed as general manager, with over 20 years of hotel leadership experience. Lucy Shulman, with nearly 20 years in hospitality, takes on the role of director of sales & marketing. Tyrone Fu is the director of revenue management, bringing 15 years of expertise. The hotel, a reimagined 1928 Beaux-Arts property, aims to elevate guest experiences.

🏨 Firmdale Hotels has appointed Charlotte Crampton Smith as general manager of Number Sixteen Hotel, South Kensington, London. Crampton Smith joined the group in 2011, initially as an intern at Crosby Street Hotel, New York, and held several roles, including deputy general manager at Haymarket Hotel. Number Sixteen features 41 unique bedrooms with Wi-Fi, TVs, and mini-bars. The hotel offers The Orangery restaurant, a Drawing Room, Library, and private garden.

📈 Louis Barruel joins JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group as senior vice president in the Montreal office, reporting to executive VP Katie Krieger. With 14 years of experience, Barruel has managed portfolios including InnVest Hotel’s 4,127-room Comfort Inn and 3,218-room Western Luxury. JLL oversees 200 hotels with nearly 50,000 rooms valued at $21 billion globally, reflecting their commitment to expanding hospitality advisory services across Canada, particularly in Quebec.

🏨 Pan Pacific Hotels Group appointed Celine Du as chief commercial and marketing officer amidst its expansion strategy. With over 30 years in luxury hospitality, Du will enhance commercial performance for Pan Pacific, Parkroyal Collection, and Parkroyal brands. She previously held senior roles at Mandarin Oriental and Shangri-La. CEO Choe Peng Sum praised her leadership and data-driven strategies. Du aims to boost performance and loyalty, following the group’s recent rebranding and focus on global presence.

🍴 Crerar Hotels appointed Sayan Bandyopadhyay as head chef at Thainstone House in Inverurie, Scotland. The 18th-century hotel introduced a new menu under his leadership. With over 20 years' experience, Bandyopadhyay previously worked at Hilton Aberdeen TECA. Thainstone House features the AA Rosette Green Lady restaurant and recently reopened Stockman’s Bar. The hotel also plans festive events, including Christmas parties and a Hogmanay gala in December.

📍 William Hunter has been appointed as general manager of The Derby London City, Curio Collection by Hilton. Opening in February 2026, this hotel marks the next evolution of Curio Collection’s lifestyle offering in London. Hunter’s 15-year career with Hilton included senior roles at The Westminster and The Trafalgar St. James London. He has appointed Edward Field as cluster director of sales and marketing and is recruiting an operations manager and head chef.