Lucknam Park Hotel appoints two to leadership team

Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa has made two appointments to its senior leadership team, with Nicola Payne joining as the new head of Sales and Events and Francesca Mannone as the new head of Marketing. 

With over 12 years of experience in the travel and hospitality industry, Payne is described by the hotel as an “enthusiastic and energetic leader”. Her  career began with a specialisation in long-haul travel experiences gained at Premier Holidays, before working in travel consultation with Flight Centre. 

Payne has also worked as a marketing manager at Expedia Group, a role that she held for the past five years. This has reportedly provided her with the skills necessary to oversee Lucknam Park’s entire Sales and Events team, implement strategic planning and launch new offerings.

Commenting on her appointment, Payne said: “I am honoured to be joining the esteemed team at Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa as head of Sales and Events. My passion for travel and dedication to creating exceptional guest experiences perfectly align with the ethos of this extraordinary property. 

“After 12 years of experience in the travel industry, I am excited to leverage my knowledge and collaborate with the talented Sales & Events team, to elevate sales strategies and exceed the expectations of our luxury guests.”

Meanwhile, Mannone joins Lucknam Park with a wealth of experience in luxury hospitality, having spent time working and living in Belgium, Germany, Italy and the UK. Mannone gained strong operational skills working for NH Hotel Group as Conference and Banqueting manager, before transitioning to Sales and Event manager at Kempinski Hotels where she oversaw the UK, France, Italy Belgium and US markets. 

Most recently, Mannone founded her own enterprise, Social Times London, a strategic digital marketing agency that helps brands to connect with customers and brand advocates.

Mannone said: “I am humbled and excited to start my new role at Lucknam Park as Head of Marketing. It is without doubt one of the best country house hotels in the UK at present and I am looking forward to working alongside the fantastic team. From the hotel itself to the spa, culinary offering and unique equestrian centre, Lucknam Park is an endless source of inspiration and excitement.”

Sakis Dinas, general manager of Lucknam Park, added: “I am delighted to welcome Nicola and Francesca to the Lucknam Park family. I am sure their contributions will be a key component in strengthening the positioning of our hotel and further cementing Lucknam Park as an important player in the luxury hospitality industry.”