The Celtic Collection appoints new CEO

Independent hotel group The Celtic Collection and the International Convention Centre Wales (ICC Wales) have appointed Julie Hammond as its new chief executive officer.

Hammond brings over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry and most recently managed one of the UK’s largest hotels in Central London.

She also held a variety of senior leadership positions across several hospitality properties and groups in the UK and Europe.

Her previous posts include asset manager for L+R Hotels, whose venues include Chewton Glen, Cliveden House and Fairmont Monte Carlo, and group commercial director for Ralph Trustees Ltd, whose hotels include London’s Athenaeum and The Grove in Hertfordshire.

She also has prior experience in Welsh hospitality having managed the Voco St David’s Hotel in Cardiff Bay.

At the expanding Celtic Collection and ICC Wales, Hammond assumes responsibility for developing business strategy and driving growth in revenues and profitability.

Hammond said: “I am delighted to take on this opportunity and build on the incredible work that has already been done to establish The Celtic Collection as Wales’ largest independent hotel group and ICC Wales as the UK’s most exciting new convention centre. The vision and ambition of the owner, Sir Terry Matthews, to continue growing the group was a particular draw for me and I look forward to developing our existing properties and seeking opportunities for further expansion.

“I am passionate about hospitality and providing seamless, unscripted service and ultimately making amazing memories for our guests. This is something that underpins an exciting new service philosophy and people culture that we are launching across The Celtic Collection. We want to empower a passionate and innovative team with a can-do attitude to surprise and delight our guests, and to raise the bar for the warmest Welsh hospitality.”