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Highland Coast Hotels has appointed global hospitality veteran, Guy Crawford, as its new chief executive officer.
Crawford is a former CEO and board member of Jumeirah Hospitality Group in Dubai, and was former managing director of Forte Heritage Hotels, as well as the managing director of Le Meridien Africa, Caribbean and Indian Ocean.
He has also acted as a non-executive board member of the Indian Hotels Company, Taj Group; Lausanne Hotel School in Switzerland; and Emirates Hotel Academy in the United Arab Emirates.
As a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and one of the first members of the Global Scots international business network, he brings with him a “wealth of experience and a passion for the Scottish Highlands that fits well with the aspirations of Highland Coast Hotels”.
Crawford will join the group as CEO from 6 April, when he will begin leading the business into the next phase of its development and expansion.
Under his leadership, Highland Coast Hotels said it intends to “strengthen and enhance the hotels it owns, and in doing so, help to further boost regional growth”.
Crawford said: “The Scottish Highlands is not only one of the most beautiful corners of the earth, but the region holds so many personal family connections and memories for me. I’m passionate about enhancing local community life and sustainable tourism.
“As Scotland’s newest luxury boutique hotel collection, Highlands Coast Hotels is already establishing its reputation for showcasing world-class Highland food and drink, supporting local businesses and outstanding hospitality. I’m delighted to be joining the team at this time and look forward to the challenge of leading Highland Coast Hotels in the next phase of its development.”
David Whiteford, chairman at Highland Coast Hotels, added: “We’re incredibly fortunate to be welcoming Guy to Highland Coast Hotels. Over the last four decades, he’s gained a global reputation as one of the hospitality industry’s most respected leaders.
“We’re thrilled that he has agreed to join our team and look forward to Highland Coast Hotels continuing to grow its positive contribution to tourism, community and the North Highland economy.”
As part of the leadership changes on 6 April, current CEO Roddy Watt will step back from involvement in day-to-day operations and focus on development of the business through investment and acquisition. He will remain on the board as development director.
