Hotel Folk names new training and development manager

Hotel Folk has named Sophie Jeffrey as its new training and development manager.

The hotel group owns and runs six hotels across Suffolk plus a “luxurious” spa and a wedding and entertainment venue.

Jeffrey takes up her new position after spending five years as group training and people development manager with the Chestnut Group, who operate hotels and pubs within East Anglia. Previously she held managerial positions with Fulham and Ipswich Town football clubs.

Among her first tasks, the hotel said she will be involved in the creation of a new training centre at Thorpeness, which will provide a “safe and welcoming” space for new Folk joining the group to gain key hospitality skills and knowledge before starting work in their chosen hotel.

The centre will also provide ongoing training and support for current team members enabling them to progress their chosen career path through apprenticeships, a chef academy and training workshops to suit all roles.

Jeffrey said: “My aim is to create a positive culture for learning, to drive skills and develop careers to ensure we provide outstanding customer service, exceeding all our guests’ expectations.”