Guillaume Marly appointed general manager of Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch

Guillaume Marly has been appointed general manager of Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch ahead of the hotel’s opening next year.

Marly announced his departure from Hotel Café Royal in August, to be replaced by Eugene Leonard.

He will now lead the operations at London’s first Waldorf Astoria property, situated by Trafalgar Square, which was acquired by the Reuben Brothers in 2022.

Originally commissioned by King Edward VII in memory of Queen Victoria, the Admiralty Arch building stands at the end of The Mall opposite Buckingham Palace. The new 100-bedroom hotel will be divided into a North and South side, stretching upwards from the spa on level three up to a rooftop brasserie on level six. A 320-cover ballroom and reception will be on the lower ground floor.

Steve Cassidy, senior vice president and managing director, UK&I, Hilton said: “Guillaume’s leadership and experience in luxury hospitality make him the perfect fit for Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch. His proven track record of delivering exceptional service and attention to detail will help bring this landmark property to life, providing experiences that blend the property’s rich history with Waldorf Astoria’s modern luxury.”

Marly said it was “an honour and a privilege to be part of such a remarkable project”. 

He added: “Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch will undoubtedly become a destination of choice in the UK and I am delighted to be taking this iconic building into a new era of luxury hospitality. Its unique location, exceptional heritage and our intentions to provide our guests with unrivalled levels of service are a truly exciting prospect.”