The Brit List top 25 Hoteliers of 2024

Part two of three in Hotel Designs editorial series on this year’s Brit Listees, in this episode we are focussing on Britain’s top 25 luxury Hoteliers, beginning with this year’s winning Hotelier, followed by the highly commended, and then the remaining honourees in alphabetical order. In part one, we shone the spotlight on the top 25 Architects.

Head to our previous article to meet all 26 of the highly commended and winning candidates of the Brit List Awards 2024, which took place back in November. See the event highlights.

Philipe Leboeuf | Managing Director | Raffles London at The OWO

WINNER: Hotelier of the Year

Philippe Leboeuf’s illustrious career in luxury hospitality speaks for itself. Currently he serves as Managing Director of Raffles London, the first Raffles hotel in the UK, situated within the iconic Grade II-listed Old War Office building on Whitehall. Now transformed, Leboeuf oversees the 120 hotel rooms and suites, 85 private residences, and nine exceptional dining venues, including three unique culinary experiences crafted by three-Michelin-star Chef Mauro Colagreco – which make up The OWO. Raffles London also boasts the city’s first Guerlain Spa, offering world-class facilities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Leboeuf has also held key positions in iconic venues such as Claridge’s London, where he was General Manager, and the Rosewood Hotel Group as Vice-President of Operations. A graduate of Cornell University and HEC Management School in Paris, Leboeuf is dedicated to elevating the guest experience in every endeavour.

Philip Steiner | General Manager | Bankside Hotel Marriott Autograph Collection

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Hotelier of the Year

In the past 12 months, General Manager Philip Steiner has led Bankside Hotel to achieve 80% of its 2024 goals by June. His leadership has been crucial in excelling in areas such as employee satisfaction, community engagement and sustainability, as well as a projected £1.2 million increase in revenue from 2023 to 2024. Under Steiner’s guidance, Bankside Hotel has ascended to the top 12 on TripAdvisor’s list of London hotels, earning the accolade of Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best and an 87.1% Guestvoice intent to recommend.

Beyond his role at Bankside, Steiner is the first franchised manager to serve on the Marriott Greater London Business Council and plays a pivotal role in the Institute of Hospitality as Diversity Champion in their London board.

Eliana Athanasiou | Global Head of Brand | St Giles Hotels

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design and nearly a decade of experience in the luxury market, Eliana Anthanasiou excels in brand strategy and development. As the Global Head of Brand at St Giles Hotels since February 2024, she leverages her expertise in branding, marketing communications, and creative direction to elevate the brand’s identity across diverse markets – delivering high-end hospitality to guests across the globe. Previously, Anthanasiou served as Head of Brand and Marketing at the Montcalm Hotel Group, where she honed her skills in consumer behaviour and strategic communications.

In her current role, Anthanasiou oversees St Giles’ city-centred properties, including those in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Makati, and London, driving brand awareness to resonate with global audiences – especially those looking for high-end city stays.

Eva Mount | General Manager | The BoTree

Eva Mount is an accomplished hospitality professional with more than 20 years’ experience in luxury hotel management. Currently serving as General Manager of The BoTree, she combines her strategic expertise in sales management and customer experience to elevate guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Mount previously held the role of Preopening General Manager at The Guardsman Hotel, where she established a boutique atmosphere that resonated with guests. Her extensive background includes key positions at renowned establishments such as The Athenaeum and Firmdale Hotels, where she consistently delivered exceptional service and strong financial performance. Known for her leadership in project management and hospitality consulting, Mount is dedicated to creating unique guest experiences. Her passion for the industry, along with her commitment to excellence, makes her a vital force in luxury hospitality.

Francois-Xavier Schoeffer | General Manager | 1 Hotel Mayfair 

Francois-Xavier Schoeffer was appointed General Manager of 1 Hotel Mayfair in February 2023: the UK flagship and first European destination of the nature-inspired luxury lifestyle hotel brand, 1 Hotels. Described by Hotel Designs upon opening as ‘more of a state of mind than an aesthetic’, under Schoeffer’s charge the 1 Hotel Mayfair has become an established, sustainability focussed yet still the lap of luxury, sanctuary nestled among some of the busiest streets of London.

Schoeffer began his hospitality career at Hotel Martinez in Cannes, France, in the late 90s. Since then, he has worked in and around London and Paris, with roles including General Manager of the Doyle Collections’ Kensington hotel, the Hôtel Lutetia in Paris, and hotel manager at Hotel Café Royal on Regent Street.

Guy Hilton | General Manager | The Waldorf Hilton

Joining in October 2016, Guy Hilton’s tenure at The Waldorf Hilton marks his sixth Hilton property, following positions at Hilton Leeds, Hilton Edinburgh Grosvenor, Hilton Newcastle Gateshead, Hilton Brighton Metropole, and Hilton Gatwick Airport.

Under Hilton’s leadership, The Waldorf Hilton has undergone significant transformations. In 2022, he spearheaded the refurbishment of an unused space into a ‘T Room,’ offering guests ‘Tea at The Waldorf’ with a dedicated Tea Sommelier. He also oversaw the re-design of the lobby lounge, launch of a new menu concept, and development of The Wild Monkey Bar. Consequently, the hotel expanded from two to five food and beverage outlets. Promoted to Area General Manager in January 2023, Hilton now oversees The Waldorf Hilton, Hilton London Hyde Park, and Curio Hart Shoreditch.

James McGinn | Managing Director | Hastings Hotels 

James McGinn stands as a beacon of excellence in the hospitality industry. With more than three decades of service at Hastings Hotels, he has not only been integral to the company’s success but has also become a highly respected figure in Northern Ireland’s tourism sector. As General Manager, McGinn was known for his impeccable standards and warm hospitality. His ability to make every guest feel special set a high bar for service. His charm and professionalism continue to define his leadership across the group’s six diverse properties.

Under McGinn’s leadership, Hastings Hotels has undergone significant rebranding enhancements. He has led a rebrand that introduced unique visual identities for each hotel, reflecting their distinct characteristics. This meticulous effort, which has taken two years to complete, has been met with positive guest feedback and has allowed the hotels to express their individuality through bold and creative designs.

Jennifer McCabe | General Manager | art’otel Battersea Power Station

Jennifer McCabe is an industry-leading Hotel General Manager with more than 15 years of experience in delivering exceptional results. Currently at the helm of art’otel London Battersea Power Station, McCabe is known for her strong leadership and exceptional skills in commerciality, stakeholder management, and talent development. She has managed the art’otel Battersea from construction to opening and under her guidance the property has successfully moved from a 4-star to a 5-star rating.

McCabe’s hospitality expertise spans project management, marketing, and performance management, underpinned by a commitment to improving customer service. Previously, she held a key position as General Manager of PPHE’s award-winning Holmes Hotel during its £14 million renovation to maximise revenue potential and guest experience. McCabe was also General Manager of the Firmdale Hotels’ Charlotte Street and Knightsbridge properties.

Jo Ringestad | Managing Director | Broadwick Soho

Growing up in his parent’s hotel, one could say that the art of hospitality is at Jo Ringestad’s core. Now Managing Director of Broadwick Street Holdings, Ringestad sits at the helm of the 57-room Broadwick Soho hotel in the heart of London’s West End. Conceived alongside his friend Noel Hayden, the Broadwick Soho is a tribute to Hayden’s parents and their 1970s Bournemouth hotel, Mon Ami – but with a heaped serving of Soho added for good measure.

The Broadwick Soho is infused with the glitz of the Jazz Age and the vibrancy of its locale; enriched by works from artists such as Francis Bacon and Andy Warhol and incensed by a custom scent crafted by perfumer Azzi Glasser, the Broadwick Soho townhouse is a delightful blend of decadence and indulgence.

Ken Millar | General Manager | W Edinburgh

Ken Millar sits at the helm of Marriott International’s first Scottish W Hotel, as General Manager of the W Edinburgh. Nicknamed the ‘Ribbon Hotel’ because of its unusual steel ribbon-like façade, the W Edinburgh is now a landmark in the city’s St James Quarter and stands as a marriage of Edinburgh’s rich history with contemporary design.

Millar, originally from Scotland, could previously be found as the General Manager at Renaissance Amsterdam or Renaissance Barcelona. However, now situated at the W Edinburgh, Millar’s leadership has been instrumental in establishing the hotel as a premier destination, ensuring that it reflects the spirit of both Edinburgh and the W brand. His commitment to exceptional service and innovative hospitality continues to enhance the guest experience at this distinctive urban retreat.

Kim Murray | Owner | Cromlix

Kim Murray, alongside husband Andy Murray, is the proud owner of Cromlix, a Victorian country estate turned luxury hotel acquired in 2013. Situated just three miles from Dunblane, Scotland, the historic property holds deep personal significance to the Murray family and is a cherished venue, having hosted numerous anniversaries, birthdays and weddings, including Kim and Andy’s own.

Reopened in March 2023 following extensive refurbishment, Kim has overseen every detail of Cromlix’s modernisation, ensuring it reflects the family’s legacy: championing both the Murray name and Scottish culture. Murray prioritises local artisans, suppliers, and designers in the hotel’s operations, but personally takes lead in selecting design elements, including upholstery choices through to floral arrangements, creating a distinctive and heartfelt guest experience.

Lee Kelly | General Manager | 45 Park Lane 

Lee Kelly is a seasoned hospitality professional currently serving as General Manager of The Dorchester’s 45 Park Lane hotel, where he brings more than two decades of experience in luxury hotel management.

Prior to this role, Lee was Hotel Manager at The Berkeley, enhancing guest experiences in Knightsbridge for over two years. His leadership journey also includes significant positions at YTL Hotels and The Savoy, where he excelled as Director of Food and Beverage, overseeing high-profile culinary operations.

Kelly’s extensive background includes key roles at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, where he honed his expertise in high-end food and beverage management across various international locations. Known for his strategic vision and commitment to exceptional service, Kelly is dedicated to creating memorable experiences for guests while driving operational excellence in the luxury hospitality sector.

Lina Zakzeckyte | General Manager | Hart Shoreditch

Lina Zakzeckyte has distinguished herself through her passion for creativity and her innovation-led approach. Her strong appreciation for the arts and dedication to the local community have transformed Hart Shoreditch into a vibrant cultural hub. Her passion and love for the arts has been translated to the design and atmosphere of the hotel, attracting artists, designers, and creatives working and getting inspiration from the space. Under her leadership, the hotel has become more than just a place to stay; it has evolved into a central meeting point for guests and locals to engage with the rich creative scene of East London.

Zakzeckyte’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment extends to her staff as well. She is deeply invested in their professional growth, offering personal mentoring and creating new roles tailored to their unique skills, fostering a culture of continuous development, she has become a role model to many women in this field.

Luca Virgilio | General Manager | The Dorchester 

As General Manager of The Dorchester in London, Luca Virgilio brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence in luxury hospitality to his role. With a background that includes serving as General Manager of Hotel Eden, the Dorchester Collection’s property in Rome, as well as leadership roles at Baglioni Hotel London and Regina Hotel Baglioni in Rome, Virgilio has a proven track record in delivering outstanding guest experiences across Europe.

Trained at the prestigious Les Roches Hotel Management School, Virgilio combines strong operational expertise with a passion for service and a keen eye for detail. Dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence, he leads a talented team to ensure The Dorchester remains synonymous with timeless luxury and unparalleled service in the heart of London.

Malisa Shepherd | Manager | The Landmark Hotel

Malisa Shepherd is Hotel Manager of the multi-award-winning Landmark Hotel, a beautiful blend of grand old-world charm with tropical twists and a rich – and at times royal – history dating back to 1899. The Landmark is a testament to English tradition, within a modern setting.

With more than 15 years of experience at the five-star Landmark, Shepherd has ascended from Front of House to Director of Rooms, to now overseeing operations at this unique courtyard-centred property. Her hospitality journey began with front-of-house roles at the Langham Hospitality Group, where she honed her skills in customer relations, satisfaction, and service management.

Shepherd is also an accomplished team leader, dedicated to fostering excellence in guest experiences. Originally trained in Performing Arts at The Brit School, she brings creativity and flair to her role.

Marwan Hemchaoui | General Manager | Ellenborough Park Hotel

Marwan Hemchaoui has been the GM at Ellenborough Park Hotel since 2018. In the past 18 months, he’s overseen significant refurbishments and innovative additions – all the while maintaining an engaged, motivated and stable team and building strong relationships with partners, both near and far.

The 5-star hotel occupies a fifteenth-century manor on the outskirts of Cheltenham with direct access to the famous racecourse. Hemchaoui supervised the refurbishment of all 61 bedrooms in 2023 to mark the hotel’s tenth anniversary, as well as redesigning the Horsebox Brasserie. His new Spa Garden Retreat launched in July 2023 and two months later he opened the hotel’s first private residence: The Lodge. This month marks the completion of the De La Bare Suite for weddings, conferences and events. All these capital projects have been conceived and overseen by Hemchaoui to offer a new degree of exclusivity and luxury for guests.

Michelle Walder | Vice President of Operations, Europe | Standard International 

Michelle Walder, a leader in the luxury hospitality sector, currently serves as Vice President of Operations, Europe, for Standard International. Prior to this, she was Managing Director of the prestigious The Twenty Two; a boutique hotel and private members’ club situated in London’s Mayfair.

Extending her influence beyond the UK, Walder also played a primary role in the development of The Twenty Two’s New York sibling, set to open in 2024 on Union Square. With a career spanning both the UK and USA, Walder has proven herself an expert in developing and managing high-end, boutique hospitality venues, consistently delivering excellence across global markets.

Paul Brackley | CEO | Kinsfolk & Co

Paul Brackley founded Kinsfolk & Co with the vision of creating a new company that delivers enhanced profitability through thoughtful  excellence and brings with him many years of hospitality experience. Brackley’s award-winning track record includes solid top and bottom line performance, establishing and maintaining world-class guest experiences, leading diverse luxury assets, including high profile launches, re-brandings and renovations.

He is adept at managing complex investor and stakeholder relationships, to deliver projects to time, budget and specification. Brackley’s wider experience includes a variety of trustee and non-executive posts across the hospitality industry. Currently, he is overseeing the development of luxury new hotel project, The Newman, due to be opening in Fitzrovia in summer 2025.

Phil Murphy | Managing Director | Hoar Cross Hall

Phil Murphy’s appointment as Managing Director of Hoar Cross Hall Spa Hotel in February 2022 marked a dynamic new chapter for the Jacobean manor. With a passion for luxury wellness and a previous role as the hotel’s Director of Leisure and Spa, Murphy has certainly made his mark on the prestigious 50-acre Grade-II listed property in Burton-upon-Trent.

Murphy leads a team of 70 staff in the running of the state-of-the-art leisure facilities: drawing on his extensive experience at organisations such as QHotels and Macdonald Hotel & Resorts. Under his leadership, Hoar Cross Hall has earned accolades including a Luxury 5* rating and the title of ‘Best Spa for Sustainability’ for 2024 from the Good Spa Guide, as well as an AA-rated Best UK Spa Award.

Ruben De Keyser | General Manager | Loch Rannoch Hotel, Spa & Estate

Ruben De Keyser’s leadership style is characterised by his visionary outlook and transformative approach. When he took over as General Manager, Loch Rannoch Hotel, Spa & Estate was a well-regarded establishment, but under his guidance, it has reached new heights. His strategic initiatives have not only increased profitability but also enhanced guest satisfaction to unprecedented levels. Ruben’s ability to foresee market trends and adapt swiftly has kept the hotel ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry.

Loch Rannoch Hotel, Spa & Estate has actively participated in local initiatives, from charity events to environmental conservation programs. De Keyser’s efforts in community involvement have not only benefited the local community but have also fostered a sense of pride and purpose among the hotel staff.

Sama Trinder | Founder and CEO | Bingham Riverhouse

Sama Trinder has reimagined luxury hospitality in the London landscape with the creation of Bingham Riverhouse, a boutique hotel nestled along the serene Richmond riverside. As Founder and CEO, Trinder draws on her background as a yoga instructor to infuse wellness and mindfulness into every aspect of the guest experience, transforming the hotel into a peaceful sanctuary.

Offering regular wellbeing workshops, Bingham Riverhouse promotes self-care, relaxation, and a deep sense of connection for its visitors. Under Trinder’s leadership, the hotel has earned BCORP certification, underlining its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and community wellbeing. With its ethos, ‘Your House – Where You Belong’, Trinder has cultivated a nurturing environment that blends luxury with a meaningful focus on calm, connection, purpose, and a welcoming sense of belonging.

Samantha Van Exter | Head of Hotels | Montcalm Collection

As the Head of Hotels for the Montcalm Collection, Samantha Van Exter has demonstrated extraordinary leadership, vision, and innovation, significantly elevating the brand and its commitment to excellence — all within her first year of joining the Montcalm Collection.

With Van Exter’s leadership, Montcalm Collection has undergone a successful rebranding that has revitalised the hotel brand’s image and hospitality market positioning. Her strategic insights and direction have refreshed the brand, aligning it with modern hospitality trends and guest expectations. Montcalm Collection’s rebrand has not only enhanced the Montcalm Collection’s appeal but has also strengthened its competitive edge in the industry. Her leadership style fosters collaboration, creativity, and professional growth, ensuring that the Montcalm Collection continues to thrive.

Simon Wong | General Manager | The Londoner

Simon Wong is the General Manager of the industry-first Green Loan funded boutique hotel in the heart of Leicester Square, The Londoner. Under Wong’s leadership, the 16-storey hotel is home to 350 bedrooms and suites, six concept eateries and bars, and a wellness retreat – just to name a few elements – and has become known for offering “theatricality and intimacy on an extraordinary scale,” as described by Anna Lambert for Hotel Designs.

Redefining modern luxury in London’s West End, The Londoner has exceeded the BREEAM Excellent category for environmental performance, without hesitating to offer guests majesty. Drawing on his wealth of experience in high-end hotel management, including roles as the manager of several Edwardian Hotels properties in London, under Wong’s guidance The Londoner continues to excel in offering an unparalleled blend of sophistication and sustainability.

Tariq Naseem | Hotel Manager | …At Sloane

Tariq Naseem is the Hotel Manager of …At Sloane, a 19th-century townhouse hotel located in the heart of Chelsea. With 30 elegantly appointed bedrooms, an intimate cocktail bar, and an all-day dining restaurant, …At Sloane offers a unique blend of seductive French living and refined British charm.

Naseem brings extensive knowledge and experience from the food and beverage sector to his current role, elevating the culinary and service standards at this boutique property. His  leadership has helped create a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, making …At Sloane a destination of choice for those seeking elegance and comfort in London. Combining his expertise with the hotel’s timeless style, Naseem ensures that every guest experiences the perfect balance of charm, luxury, and personal attention.

Tim Reynolds | General Manager | Treehouse Hotel Manchester

Tim Reynolds has been the General Manager of Treehouse Hotel Manchester, part of the SH Hotels & Resorts company, since July 2022. With a focus on eco-conscious hospitality and unique guest experiences, under Reynolds guidance, the hotel is preparing to launch Pip, a restaurant dedicated to celebrating seasonal ingredients and low-waste cooking that will open its doors in autumn 2024.

Prior to joining Treehouse Hotel Manchester, Reynolds served as Director of Operations at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and as Cluster Hotel Manager for the Radisson Hotel Group. With extensive experience in hotel management and operations, Reynolds is driving Treehouse Hotel Manchester to stand out as a vibrant, eco-friendly destination that combines thoughtful dining, playful design, and warm, welcoming service.