Radisson Blu Hotel Sheffield appoints GM ahead of opening

Radisson Hotel Group has announced the appointment of Valerie Donaldson as general manager of the new Radisson Blu Hotel Sheffield, which is scheduled to open this summer. 

Donaldson will play a pivotal role in overseeing the opening of the new property with its grand Victorian facade in the heart of Sheffield city centre. 

The hotel features 154 modern rooms, many of which look out over the landscape of the city’s Peace Gardens and its historic clock tower, where the combination of Sheffield’s history and regeneration unfolds. 

As an integral part of Radisson Hotel Group since 2008, Donaldson brings a wealth of experience to her newly appointed position. Having worked across several hotels within the group, she successfully headed up the refurbishment and repositioning of Radisson Blu Hotel in Leeds between 2012 and 2015. Prior to that, she was also part of the management team for the opening of Radisson SAS in Birmingham.

Donaldson said: “Sheffield is undergoing significant investment right now with the regeneration of the city centre, and I’m thrilled that we are part of the transformation. I’m truly excited with the hotel plans; this is an amazing property which will play a big part in the city, and I cannot wait for it to open. My goal is to create a destination where people can relax, dine, meet-up, and enjoy themselves – a true hub within the city.”

Heart of the City II is revamping Sheffield’s city centre to deliver its commercial, leisure, retail and residential area. As part of the scheme, the new hotel will help rejuvenate the centre of Sheffield with easy access to key attractions including The Crucible Theatre, Lyceum Theatre and live music venue O2 Academy Sheffield, as well as Sheffield Hallam University.

Suzanne Speak, RHG managing director UK and Ireland, said: “Valerie has extensive experience in hotel openings and repositioning, as well as a proven track record within our group. There is no doubt that Valerie’s passion and commitment to excellence, along with her leadership skills, will play a key role in providing a first-class guest experience for the city of Sheffield.”