Doyle Collection names new The Kensington GM

The Doyle Collection, an Irish family-owned luxury hotel group, has announced the appointment of François-Xavier Schoeffer as the general manager of The Kensington hotel.

It revealed Schoeffer brings extensive experience working with “world-renowned” hotels of international regard to The Kensington, and his knowledge of the needs of the modern luxury guest will be indispensable, given the hotel’s international client base.

Schoeffer joins the international hotel group with over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality. Originally from Savoie, France, he launched his career in the industry at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes, before making the move to Paris where he acted as front office manager for The Westin.

Schoeffer subsequently remained in Paris, advancing his career as director of operations for the Hotel Lutetia, located in the enigmatic Saint-Germain-des-Prés area.

In 2013, he was hand-picked to lead the relaunch of the Hotel Café Royal, London. Over a six-year tenure, he helped to re-establish the luxury hotel, firstly as director of operations and then as hotel manager, overseeing the day-to-day management of the 160-room hotel alongside five restaurant and bar outlets and spa.

Pat King, The Doyle Collection CEO, said: “We are delighted to welcome Francois to The Doyle Collection team. His experience working in a number of landmark international properties in some of the most exciting cities in the world will be invaluable to our group, and he brings with him a wealth of knowledge in true luxury hospitality.”

Schoeffer added: “I’m delighted to be returning to London and am honoured to join The Kensington. I have always been driven by a true passion for hotels and the history behind them, which makes me all the more excited to be in charge of an incredible property with such a unique legacy.”