Watergate Bay Hotel appoints new senior team

Watergate Bay Hotel and Businesses has announced the appointment of a new senior team dedicated to the group’s new phase of growth. 

The new team will work across all businesses of the group, leading Watergate Bay Hotel, as well as Beach Retreats and the Another Place hotel collection.

Will Ashworth has been appointed to CEO, and will remain responsible for the overall development and expansion of the group. 

Ben Harper will drive the strategic direction and running of the businesses as managing director.

Judi Blakeburn, brand director, will oversee brand strategy, marketing and guest experience, whilst Natalie Poole, formerly of Soho House, will look after finance and strategy as the new finance director. 

Watergate Bay Hotel has a reported turnover of £11m, as well as occupancy rates of 92%.

In 2017, it launched the Another Place hotel collection. Beach Retreats, which also belongs to the group, is a marketing, letting and holiday property management company with over 170 properties. Andrew Easton will continue as managing director of Beach Retreats.

Will Ashworth said: “As we look to the future, it’s vital we have the best people in place to take our businesses forward. 

“I’m excited by the senior team we’ve created and the potential that together we see for the future.”

He added: “It’s been an incredible journey so far and we’re set to build on what’s been achieved to make the next few years more incredible still.”

Ben Harper said: “The senior team brings with it exactly the breadth of experience, insights and specialisms we need to take us forward into its next phase of significant growth. 

“It’s a team that will enable us to focus on what’s ahead while also continuing to do the great work at Watergate Bay and across our businesses, building our offer and brand to ensure every guest experiences just what active relaxation is all about.”

Watergate Bay Hotel and Businesses has been owned by the Ashworth family for over 50 years