Redworth Hall GM Vince Johnson retires after 42 years in hospitality

Vince Johnson, general manager at Redworth Hall hotel in County Durham, has announced his retirement after 42 years in the hospitality industry.

Johnson started his career as a trainee waiter at the Old Ship hotel in his hometown of Brighton, aged 17.

After two years in the role, he entered a management position, having worked across Guernsey, Carmarthen, Bristol, St Ives, Harrogate and Southampton before joining Cairn Group as Redworth Hall’s general manager in May 2001.

During his first tenure at the Jacobean manor house hotel, he oversaw the launch of the Prince’s Bishop Suite conference centre, as well as the refurbishment of two restaurants and the installation of a new kitchen.

He also hosted the former England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson and the England football team in 2003.

In 2004, he joined the Majestic hotel, now the Doubletree by Hilton Majestic hotel in Harrogate, before returning to Redworth Hall in 2015 to continue serving as general manager.

At the time of his departure, he had spent 23 years working at Cairn Hotel Group, which owns and operates 29 hotels, as well as eight restaurants and bars across the UK.

Johnson said: “Walking into that interview at 17 for a trainee waiter job was the best thing that ever happened to me. Redworth Hall has been a huge part of my life for over two decades, and it’s been a pleasure to see the hotel evolve and grow over the years.

“Whilst it’s bittersweet to leave, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the people I’ve worked with over the years. It’s been a hugely rewarding career and I feel very fortunate.”

Richard Adams, HR director at Cairn Hotel Group, added: “We’re incredibly thankful for Vince’s hard work and dedication to making Redworth what it is today. Vince’s unwavering commitment to not just the group but also to the hospitality industry has shaped our culture and inspired generations of colleagues.

“At Cairn, we believe that hospitality isn’t just a job, it’s a career for life, and Vince has truly embodied that ethos. We’re very sad to see him go but wish him all the very best for his retirement and future endeavours.”

As he looks towards retirement, Johnson said he will be joining a health club, taking golf lessons, and tackling some “long overdue house and garden projects”.