The former group head of operations at Bath-based Andrew Brownsword Hotels has returned to the business to become its new CEO.
John Badley, pictured, takes over from his former boss Stephanie Hocking in the role. Stephanie announced last week that she was leaving the group, which owns 13 luxury venues in countryside settings and city centre locations across the UK, including The Bath Priory, after seven years.
John previously worked for the group between 2016 and February of this year. Prior to that he spent nearly three years as general manager of Dalhousie Castle Hotel on the outskirts of Edinburgh.
He has also worked for the de Vere and Macdonald hotel groups.
Andrew Brownsword Hotels said the appointment would enable him “to harness the skills and enthusiasm of the management teams, many of whom he already knows well”.
Director Alessandra Brownsword added: “We worked closely with John during his previous time with us, where he constantly proved his ability, drive and passion for our business and our people.
“We are now excited to have the opportunity to work with John in a leadership role, as we embark on the next chapter of the business with fresh ideas and a new sense of creativity. We warmly welcome John into this position and will give him our full support.”
John said he was “overjoyed” to re-join the Andrew Brownsword Hotels team as CEO.
“While I aim to continue to respect the traditions for which the hotels are famed and adored, I am thrilled to support the family to create an exciting new level of hospitality for both our team and our guests to enjoy,” he added.
“To be trusted with the family’s prestigious hotels is the greatest honour of my career and I am looking forward to joining at this very special time.”
Family-owned Andrew Brownsword Hotels’ collection also includes the award-winning Gidleigh Park in Devon, the 900-year-old Amberley Castle in West Sussex, and the Sydney House Chelsea in London.
