Franck Arnold revealed as the Savoy's new managing director

Franck Arnold has been revealed as managing director and regional vice-president of London’s Savoy hotel, ahead of its reopening, which will begin later this month.

Arnold steps into the shoes of Philip Barnes, who departed earlier this month to take on the position of general manager of the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles and regional vice-president Southern California, after four years at the helm.

Arnold joins Fairmont’s five-red-AA-star, 267-bedroom hotel, just off London's Strand, from the Ritz-Carlton in Toronto. During his time at the hotel, which holds five Forbes stars, he received the humanitarian award from the Hotel Association of Canada.

During a career in hospitality spanning some 30 years he has also worked with IHG, Four Seasons, Rocco Forte, Ritz-Carlton and independent hotels in Europe and North America.

Arnold said: “I’m both honoured and humbled to take on the role of managing director of the Savoy and regional vice-president, for Fairmont hotels and resorts.

“We are living through exceptional times, which create many challenges, but also opportunities. I’m excited to be working with a team of extraordinary people, who I know are as committed as I am to rebuilding our business and re-establishing the Savoy as a beacon of luxury hospitality in one of the world’s most diverse and cosmopolitan cities.”

Arnold will take up the role on 21 September, the same day the Savoy Grill will reopen to welcome diners for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

A phased reopening will see the hotel offer afternoon tea in its Thames foyer and bar bites in the Beaufort bar from 24 September, with room bookings being taken from 1 October, when the hotel’s pool and gym facilities will also reopen.

The American Bar, Kaspar’s at the Savoy and Simpsons in the Strand will reopen as consumer confidence and tourism sees footfall return to the capital.

The hotel’s new managing director will also oversee operations at Sofitel London St James, Sofitel Legend the Grand Amsterdam and Fairmont Windsor Park, which is expected to open in spring 2021.

Marc Dardenne, chief operating officer of Accor Europe Luxury Brands, commented: “Franck is an exceptional luxury hotelier, passionate about hospitality, people and experiences. His attention to detail ensures excellence and his energy and vision will spread through his team. He has a wealth of experience in North America and a luxury background that is second to none.”

Thomas Dubaere, chief operating officer of Accor Northern Europe, added: “Franck’s experience and vision, combined with the excellent team at the Savoy, a Fairmont Managed Hotel, will deliver a contemporary vision for the iconic hotel at a time when great leadership and a passion for excellence is more important than ever.”

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