James Clarke to step down as general manager of Hilton London Bankside

James Clarke is to step down as general manager of the Hilton London Bankside hotel after eight years.

Posting on social media, Clarke said his last day would be 18 August before he started his new role as general manager of Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London the following week.

“I am excited for the new challenges and adventures this will bring,” he wrote.

Clarke said that his “good friend and longtime colleague” Raoul de Souza, who has worked at the Hilton Bankside since 2015, is to take over as general manager of the hotel.

He added: “My team have often heard me say ‘I want you to take my job’ and now that has happened – fantastic news!”.

Clarke joined Hilton London Bankside ahead of its opening in 2015 and the property won Hotel of the Year – Group at the 2020 Cateys.

“Before I took on this role to open the hotel back in 2015, I must admit I hadn’t heard of Bankside,” he wrote.

“So, over the last eight years it has been an honour to have a front row seat to the development of this area and it will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Clarke added: “I want to thank our guests, many of whom I have been lucky enough to get to know personally. Thank you for your patronage, candid honest and enthusiasm for continuing to stay at Hilton London Bankside.

“But finally, to team Bankside. It has been a privilege to work alongside so many talented hoteliers over the last eight years. I am truly humbled by your attention to detail, passion for hard work and above all the unwavering support you have offered my in creating the magic carpet experience for ourselves, the Bankside community, and our guests alike. Simply put, I couldn’t have done it without you!”

Clarke studied in both the UK and US and one of his early jobs included working at the Waldorf Astoria in New York as director of room service and hospitality operations.

He has also been recognised with two Hotel Cateys while at the Grosvenor House hotel; firstly as part of the UK Conference and Banqueting Department of the Year 2009 and also as Food & Beverage Manager of the Year in 2010.

Image: @jclarke1212 / Twitter