Hand Picked Hotels hires Belmond and Macdonald Hotels alumni

Julian Tomlin, the former regional managing director of Macdonald Hotels, has joined Hand Picked Hotels as head of operations.

 

Tomlin (pictured right) was previously general manager of Pennyhill Park in Surrey and group director of operations for the Exclusive Collection, where he was based for 18 years.

 

Hand Picked Hotels has also appointed Ariel Bouzas (pictured left) as chief guest experience officer, who joins from Belmond, where he was vice president, global operations.

 

Bouzas will be reporting directly into chief executive officer Ignace Bauwens, who was appointed to the role in November 2023.

 

Bauwens replaced Julia Hands, who remains chairman of the hotel collection.

 

Tomlin said: “Hand Picked Hotels has an excellent reputation for delivering exceptional luxury experiences across its properties in the UK and the Channel Islands, where every single detail, and that personal touch, really matters, so I am incredibly excited for this next chapter.”

 

Bouzas added: “My passion for delivering high quality guest experiences perfectly aligns with the business’ dedication to delivering excellence across every guest touch point. Together with our talented team, my goal is to further accelerate the Hand Picked Hotels service to the highest level, whether it’s during a stay, a spa treatment or enjoying a dining experience in one of our award-winning restaurants.”

 

Hand Picked Hotels was founded in 2001 and consists of 21 privately-owned properties ranging from Scotland to the Channel Islands.