Oxford Witney Hotel appoints new manager

The Oxford Witney Hotel has announced that Madhu Balakrishnan has been appointed as its new manager.

Balakrishnan is bringing nearly three decades of experience to his new role at the 115-room property, which is managed by Focus Hotels.

Before joining Focus, his career has seen him work with some of the world’s most recognised hotel brands, including Sheraton, Hilton, Accor and IHG.

In addition to 115 bedrooms, the hotel has a brasserie and bar, fitness centre, pool, sauna, steam room, flexible meeting room and the facility to accommodate 150 guests for weddings, conferences, and events.

Balakrishnan said: “Focus Hotels is a forward-thinking, supportive company that realises that employees are their greatest asset”.

“I am working with professionals I can learn from and who will push me to take on new and challenging opportunities. I am treated with respect, given daily encouragement and feel valued for what I bring to the business.”

Lynn Hood, chief operating officer of Focus Hotels, added: “Madhu has 28 years of experience in the industry, which will be hugely beneficial to the post-pandemic business recovery at the Oxford Witney.

“His appointment is another example of how Focus Hotels seeks to recognise and reward those who demonstrate strong leadership skills and who embrace our ethos of putting people first, in terms of our own teams, our guests and our business partners.”