Simon Mahon steps down from the Grand, York

Simon Mahon is to step down as general manager at the Grand, York hotel after five years.

He plans to relocate to Cornwall with his family for “a next exciting chapter”.

Mahon joined the five-AA-red-star property in 2020 from aparthotel company Edyn and previously managed the Lancaster hotel in Bangkok.

During his tenure the Grand won the Catey for Hotel of the Year - Group in 2022 and was recognised in The Caterer’s Best Places to Work list 2024.

Writing on LinkedIn, Mahon said: “It turns out that leaving the Grand is a really difficult thing to do. It’s impossible to say goodbye to this beautiful city, wonderful business and amazing team without feeling more than a little sad, but I look back at the last few years and my heart is full.

“It’s been an incredible journey. What an absolute privilege to be a custodian of this truly special hotel during some of the most challenging times that hospitality has faced. As a team we not only overcame those challenges but also achieved remarkable milestones…with a celebration or two along the way.”

The Grand has appointed a new general manager, which will be announced in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, hotel manager Chris Cooper will take on the role of acting general manager in the interim.

The hotel, which is owned by Splendid Hospitality, opened in 2010 and added 100 new rooms in 2018 as part of a £15m refurbishment to double its capacity to 207 room.

Its hotel restaurant holds three AA rosettes and is aiming for a Michelin star with its new menu.