Crerar Hotels appoints two new general managers

Crerar Hotels has announced the appointment of two new general managers for two of its luxury properties.

Bringing a total of 38 years of experience in hospitality, John de Villiers is set to take over the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa, while Scott McDonald will manage Thainstone House in Inverurie.

McDonald joins the group from his most recent role as general manager at Sydney House in Chelsea, while Villiers most recently worked as general manager at AM Weinberg Boutique Hotel in Namibia.

On his appointment, McDonald said: “I’m thrilled to take up my new post at Thainstone House, where my priority will be on raising the hotel’s already high standards and ensuring our guests receive nothing less than the first-class experience the property is renowned for. 

“Whether guests stay with us for leisure, business, a spa day, or are simply dropping by for afternoon tea or a meal in our renowned Green Lady restaurant, we want them all to feel special and will do everything we can to ensure their every need is catered for.”

Villiers said: “Joining the Crerar Hotels team on Mull in preparation for welcoming back guests is an honour. This stunning island retreat in such an idyllic setting was well-worth relocating for. 

“The multi-million-pound refurbishment is creating the perfect destination in which to relax, absorb fresh coastal air and do some exploring – and I cannot wait to open our doors and welcome guests back to stay with us.” 

Chris Wayne-Wills, CEO of the Crerar Hotel Group, said: “John and Scott are fantastic additions to the Crerar Hotels family, with extensive experience across the hospitality industry. 

“As we begin to re-establish ourselves following the latest lockdown, we look towards new chapters for both Thainstone House and Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa, and I’m confident both John and Scott will do a stellar job providing the exceptional service expected of our hotels.”