The Balmoral, the Rocco Forte hotel in Edinburgh and the only Forbes Five Star hotel in Scotland, has announced the appointment of Andrew McPherson to the position of General Manager.Â
Andrew will oversee the 167 room and 20 suite hotel, the spa and fitness centre as well as the hotels culinary offerings which includes fine dining restaurant, Number One, Brasserie Prince and its bar, Bar Prince. The Palm Court, known for its afternoon-tea experience and the whisky destination, SCOTCH also come into the remit.
Andrew, who formerly ran Grantley Hall, near the Yorkshire Dales and under his management, the newly opened Grantley Hall was transformed into an award-winning hotel, earning the AA Hotel of the Year for England 2022-23, a Michelin Star, and five AA Red Stars. Andrew has also formerly worked as General Manager at Lucknam Park, Skibo Castle, and Swinton Park Hotel.
Andrew McPherson said, “I am delighted to be appointed to the position of custodian of Edinburgh’s most iconic hotel, The Balmoral, and very much looking forward to leading such an incredible team. I have long admired The Balmoral for not only its architecture, history, and incredible restaurants and bars but also for the world class hospitality delivered every day. The walls of The Balmoral hold a century of stories, from its opening in 1902 to now. It is wonderful to see how many people hold a special place in their hearts for this hotel, and I am honoured to now be in charge of so many cherished memories.”
Andrew’s new role is a return to the Forte family; after graduating from university, he completed his management trainee scheme as part of the Forte Group. He then went on to work at numerous properties throughout the UK and Europe including The Penina Golf Resort in the Algarve, The Beach Plaza in Monaco, Grosvenor House in London and The Bath Spa Hotel in Bath.
Richard Cooke, Cluster Managing Director at Rocco Forte hotels and previously General Manager at The Balmoral before heading up Brown’s in London, said, “We are delighted to welcome Andrew McPherson to Rocco Forte hotels. Andrew joins us with a vast wealth of experience working with luxury hotels and will be a wonderful asset to The Balmoral. I very much look forward to working directly with Andrew as we ensure the continued success of two of the world’s greatest hotels.”
Pictured: Andrew McPherson