Highland Coast Hotels has appointed global hospitality veteran, Guy Crawford, as its new Chief Executive Officer. He will join Highland Coast Hotels from 6th April, when he will begin leading the business into the next phase of its development and expansion.
As a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and one of the first members of the Global Scots international business network, Crawford is also former CEO and board member of Jumeirah Hospitality Group in Dubai, Managing Director of Forte Heritage Hotels, Managing Director of Le Meridien Africa, Caribbean and Indian Ocean, as well as being non-executive board member of the Indian Hotels Company, Taj Group, Lausanne Hotel School in Switzerland, and Emirates Hotel Academy in the United Arab Emirates.
It’s a return to his roots for the new CEO. Crawford’s grandparents and parents were hotel owners and managers in the Scottish Highlands, including venues in Forres, Nairn, Grantown-on-Spey, Aviemore and Craigellachie and his wife Elizabeth is originally from Barra.
As part of the leadership changes current CEO Roddy Watt will step back from involvement in day-to-day operations and focus on development of the business through investment and acquisition. As founder of Highland Coast Hotels, Mr Watt’s contribution to the Group and the North Highland economy is very significant and the board is delighted that he will be involved in the next phase of the Group’s development. Watt will remain on the board of Highland Coast Hotels as Development Director.
It’s an exciting time for Highland Coast. 2022 saw the relaunch of Royal Marine Brora which is already The Times Top 100 hotels to visit and this year will see the introduction of two newly refurbished properties to the collection. The Tongue Hotel and Plockton Inn will re-open to visitors in April 2023 following extensive renovations.
Under Crawford’s leadership, Highland Coast Hotels say that they intend to strengthen and enhance the hotels it owns, and in doing so, help to further boost regional growth. The focus will be on creating great experiences around the North Coast 500 for travellers, sustainable tourism, embracing the local community, and drawing upon the expertise and skills of local suppliers in the Highlands.
Commenting on his appointment to lead Highland Coast Hotels, Guy Crawford, said, “The Scottish Highlands is not only one of the most beautiful corners of the earth, but the region holds so many personal family connections and memories for me. I’m passionate about enhancing local community life and sustainable tourism.
“As Scotland’s newest luxury boutique hotel collection, Highlands Coast Hotels is already establishing its reputation for showcasing world-class Highland food and drink, supporting local businesses and outstanding hospitality.
“I’m delighted to be joining the team at this time and look forward to the challenge of leading Highland Coast Hotels in the next phase of its development.”
David Whiteford, Chairman at Highland Coast Hotels, added, “We’re incredibly fortunate to be welcoming Guy to Highland Coast Hotels. Over the last four decades, he’s gained a global reputation as one of the hospitality industry’s most respected leaders.
“We’re thrilled that he has agreed to join our team and look forward to Highland Coast Hotels continuing to grow its positive contribution to tourism, community and the North Highland economy.”