Hotel Cateys 2023: Outstanding Contribution Award – Sue Williams

Sponsored by Karcher

One of the most respected hoteliers in the UK, Sue Williams has run some of the most iconic hotels in the country and done so while setting the standard for delivering outstanding hospitality while operating sustainably.

Having worked her way up to operations manager at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Williams took on her first general manager role at the Bath Priory and soon found herself responsible for Sydney House in London’s Chelsea and Gidleigh Park in Devon, where she oversaw a complete refurbishment of the property that contributed to the 2009 award of Hotel of the Year at the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence.

Since joining Whatley Manor from Cliveden House in 2016, the impassioned environmentalist has driven the business to deliver luxury hospitality across the five-AA-star hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant while focusing on a green agenda, with the aim of achieving net-zero emissions well before the end of the decade.

Williams’ dedication saw her win the 2017 Hotelier of the Year award while Whatley Manor won the 2021 Sustainable Business Catey for its environmental policies.

Her zero-emissions ambition received a massive shot in the arm in 2021 when Williams enrolled on the University of Cambridge’s inaugural Business and Climate Change: Towards Net Zero Emissions course, run by its Institute for Sustainable Leadership. The nine-week course was delivered to 290 students from around the world; Williams was the only hotelier.

She has since been the go-to spokesperson for practical sustainable action in hospitality and a role model for those looking to improve both their business and environmental performance.

Northcote managing director Craig Bancroft described Williams as “one of the industry’s greatest hoteliers in the true sense of the word”.

He added: “A charismatic and forthright leader who leads from the front. She is genuine and sincere in all that she does and has achieved.

“Whatley not only is a first-class hotel with an outstanding team of people delivering everything you expect from a five-star hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, but is also is an example of a journey that is unique. Sue’s decision to take on the sustainability narrative long before anyone else took notice was groundbreaking, but more her tenacity to see it through in the way that she has is nothing short of exemplary.”

Exclusive Hotels managing director Danny Pecorelli, who is also driving the sustainability strategy within his business, said: “Sue has consistently been a true leader of the hospitality industry, not only transforming both Cliveden and Whatley Manor with an innate sense of great hospitality, a hands on caring attitude for both her teams and her guests but also a remarkable ability to spot, nurture and develop great chefs. Her incredible work in developing talent with her 10 out of 10 program also helped launch many careers within the industry.

“Sue’s pioneering passion for sustainability has also helped not only her own properties but also put a spotlight on the art of the possible for sustainable hospitality.”

As she leaves Whatley Manor to embark on a new journey as a consultant, guiding properties on eco initiatives, it is fitting that Williams is recognised with this award for the pioneering work she has undertaken and example set to fellow hoteliers.