De Vere's Gary Davis named new Malmaison and Hotel du Vin chief executive
Davis, 50, will take over role with immediate effect following Robert Cook's departure at the end of November with plans to 'keep the brands moving' and push them into new markets.
He said: "Robert Cook has helped to create both a dynamic brand and a great team during his eight years at the helm of this fantastic boutique hotels business. It is a privilege to take over his mantle, cast a fresh eye over the brands and take the business on to the next stage of its development.
"I am looking forward to working with one of the best and most motivated management teams in the sector. As well as consolidating and growing their position in the UK we aim to take Mal and HdV into new markets with a dynamic and deliverable plan."
In its latest trading statement, MWB Group Holdings, owner of the boutique hotel brands, admitted trade had been tough at the 12 Malmaisons and 15 Hotel du Vins in the last six months of 2011 due to a 'softening in demand for accommodation and food and beverage'.
Key objectives
Davis, who has been instrumental in growing the Village Hotels brand over the past five years and is responsible for growing its sales by 55 per cent to £170m, outlined his key objectives for his new role.
"A great brand has to keep moving and I aim to bring new drive to enrich the guest experience as well as maximising revenue through new income streams, growing market share and offering improved value. My key objective is to ensure that both Mal and HdV maintain their position as market leaders in innovation and service standards within the hospitality industry," he said.
MWB chief executive Richard Balfour-Lynn thanked Cook for his eight years with the company.
"I would like to thank Robert Cook, who I enjoyed working with enormously, for helping to develop Malmaison and HdV and I look forward to continuing the same positive relationship with Gary who will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to the business."
Davis worked at a senior executive at Hard Rock, Planet Hollywood, Grand Metropolitan and Kingdom Holding before joining De Vere.
