UK: Luxury property Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa has appointed Chris Smith as general manager, effective from 22 October 2024.
Smith joins Whatley Manor from The Vineyard, a five-star hotel and spa in Berkshire where he worked for nearly 10 years and was promoted to general manager in 2022.
Prior to this, Smith was director of food and beverage at Foxhills Country Club & Resort, and food and beverage manager at Stoke Park Country Club, Spa & Hotel.
He said: ”It is an absolute privilege to be taking on the role of general manager at Whatley Manor, a property that has been a leader in becoming an environmentally responsible hotel, restaurant and spa.
“I am delighted to be working with a team that champions environmental responsibility, but does so whilst delivering an exceptional guest experience, on a luxurious and innovative level. I look forward to building upon the team culture and these already strong foundations while driving the Landolt family’s ambitious plans and commitments forward.”
Owners Alix Landolt and Christian Landolt added: “Since Michele Mella’s resignation, to whom we are most grateful for having been at the helm this past year, it has been a busy time recruiting for a new GM for Whatley Manor.
“Chris has impressed us with his professionalism and ambition. He also has a great passion for fine dining and sustainability which is perfect for our property. We are confident that Chris’s vision will build on our already strong standards and reputation, as well as bring a fresh perspective in our ever-changing world. We are very excited to see what the future has in store and hope when you meet him you will be as equally enthusiastic as we are about him joining our already exceptional team.”
Whatley Manor, located near the Wiltshire village of Malmesbury, offers 23 bedrooms, two restaurants, and spa.
