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The Grand hotel in York has announced Shekhar Grover as its new hotel manager, a move it said rings in an “exciting” new leadership phase that will meet its current high service standards and prioritise guest experience and operational direction to enhance the business further.
Grover steps into his new role with 17 years of experience in luxury hospitality, having served as director of food and beverage at the five-star Celtic hotel in Wales and later Scotland’s Fairmont St Andrews.
Prior to professional life, he was already immersed in the hospitality sector thanks to his parents’ restaurant in India as well as his cousin’s work in the cruise sector.
He himself would go on to bartend for Royal Caribbean Cruises, where he would eventually serve as senior beverage operations manager after visiting 59 countries over 12 years.
Located in the centre of York, The Grand contains 207 rooms, two restaurants – 3 AA rosette Legacy and The Rise and a Cookery School.
The hotel, part of the Splendid Hospitality Group, additionally enhanced its guest offering last year with SubRosa, a £2.8m spa renovation in the property’s vaults.
Grover said: “For me, five-star hospitality has always been about creating meaningful experiences and lasting memories. Guests come to us to celebrate life’s most important moments, and being part of that is a real privilege. What stood out to me at The Grand was just how important this was to them, too, by offering guests so much under one roof, whilst seamlessly celebrating the beautiful city that the hotel calls home.
“From the professional cookery school to SubRosa, a spa offering treatments you won’t find anywhere else in Yorkshire, it’s an experience that really sets The Grand apart. Growing up in India, I was taught that when someone visits your home, you do everything you can to ensure they leave happy, and that ethos has stayed with me throughout my career. It’s about genuine care, authenticity in service and an unwavering attention to detail.”
He added: “I’m also committed to supporting our wider community and driving sustainable practices, which aligns closely with The Grand’s values. Having previously worked in a Green Key- certified hotel, I’ve seen first-hand the impact responsible hospitality can have, and I’m excited to continue that journey here in York.”
Adam Dyke, general manager of The Grand, York said: “We’re delighted to welcome Shekhar to The Grand, York following an exciting year for the hotel. He brings a wealth of experience from luxury hospitality, alongside a genuine passion for creating exceptional guest experiences.
“What stood out immediately is his hands-on, people-first approach. In a business like ours, having a leader who is truly present on the ground, supporting the team, understanding the detail and driving standards day in, day out, makes a tangible difference to both our culture and our guest experience. I look forward to seeing the impact Shekhar has on the hotel, team and local community.”
