Russell Platt becomes general manager at the Cadogan

Russell Platt is the new general manager of the Cadogan, a Belmond hotel, in London’s Chelsea.

He has succeeded Xavier Lablaude, who stepped away from the 54-bedroom hotel following a four-year tenure. 

Platt has worked in some of London’s most prestigious five-star hotels, latterly as hotel manager at the Savoy and previously as director of events and groups at Claridge’s and director of food and beverage at the Dorchester.

As part of his role at the Cadogan, Platt will lead the development of the guest experience and oversee European-inspired café-restaurant the LaLee and the Cadogan Lounge, which serves afternoon tea by pâtissier Benoit Blin.

Iain Langridge, vice-president of global operations and divisional leader for Northern Europe, Africa, and Asia Pacific at Belmond (LVMH), said: “Russell’s extensive experience at five-star properties, coupled with a deep expertise in food and beverage, makes him the ideal choice to guide this iconic destination into its next exciting chapter as one of London’s premier luxury hotels. I look forward to seeing the passion and innovation he will bring to this exceptional property."

Platt added: “I look forward to working with the already exceptional team to elevate the guest experience and continue its legacy as one of the city’s most prestigious luxury hotels.”

Platt was born and raised in Durban, South Africa, and his family moved to Victoria in British Columbia, Canada, when he was a teenager.

He has been a member of the London Food and Beverage Manager’s Association since 2015 and the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs since 2018.