The William Cecil names new GM and head chef

Boutique hotel in Lincolnshire, The William Cecil, which forms part of the Hillbrooke Hotels collection has appointed a new general manager and head chef. It has named Sergio Martinez as its new general manager and Liam Goodwill as head chef, with both additions looking to “cement” the hotel as one of Lincolnshire’s “most popular” destinations. After completing his management training in 2009 at The Ritz London, Martinez secured a career of senior roles at an array of hotels and restaurants — with notable examples including Sudbury House Hotel, Langoed Hall Hotel, and his most recent role as operations manager at Haycock Manor Hotel. Additionally, the hotel said Goodwill has over 22 years of experience, achieving his first head chef position in 2006 aged 24. During his career, he has refined his own personal style and during his time at the four-star Rushton Hall, consistently produced three AA Rosette-standard food for over eight years. According to The William Cecil, the acquisitions of Martinez and Goodwill will provide an opportunity to build upon an already “established and thriving” business, with its recent success at this year's Hitched Wedding Awards being a “sign of success to come.” Martinez said: “The William Cecil is a forward-thinking and impressive hotel with a really unique style — something I am determined to preserve. The team has been so welcoming and the abundance of talent on display makes me extremely optimistic for the future. “I have had the pleasure of working in some amazing hotels during my career but I was completely captivated by this hotel and the beautiful town of Stamford. I hope to keep the business firmly on its current trajectory and want William Cecil to be the first name people think of when visiting the area.” Goodwill added: “We want the hotel to be as well known for its restaurant and catering services as it is for its great accommodation. My overall aim is to offer a consistent and high-quality dining experience that is popular amongst both guests and the local community.” Paul Brown, managing director of Hillbrooke Hotels, said: “Sergio and Liam were the perfect fit for the Hillbrooke family and we are confident that their unique styles and eye for detail will be a valuable asset to William Cecil.”