Gleneagles announces new General Manager

by XPRESS, 04 September 2017

Gleneagles has appointed Conor O’Leary as its new General Manager, as it looks to build on the success of the multi-million pound refurbishment programme that has seen the hotel transformed over the last 18 months,

The appointment will see him take the operational lead at the five-star Perthshire hotel and sporting estate – which is gearing-up to host the high-profile 2019 Solheim Cup, and which recently boosted its field sports profile, following the revival of its Glorious Grouse Race event from the archives earlier this month.

O’Leary – who brings over 20 years’ experience in the industry – first joined Gleneagles in November 2016 when he took up the position of Hotel Manager, with chief responsibility for all food and beverage operations across the hotel and estate.

Immediately prior to arriving at Gleneagles, he was Director of Food & Beverage at the five-star Grand Hyatt in Dubai, with responsibility for 14 restaurants and bars at the Hyatt group’s largest global food and beverage operation.

Andreas Porias, previously Gleneagles’ Director of Rooms, has assumed the role of Hotel Manager.

Porias – who joined Gleneagles in 2013, following leadership roles at some of London’s most prestigious properties, including The Dorchester and The Lanesborough – has played a key role in managing Gleneagles’ capital investments, since the launch of the hotel’s refurbishment programme in 2016.

“I feel fortunate and proud to be a part of the incredible team here at Gleneagles – which delivers an outstanding guest experience and is recognised globally as the finest seat of luxury Scottish hospitality,” said O’Leary.

“The hotel refuses to rest on its laurels, and its continual pursuit of excellence and improvement across every element of the guest journey – from our exceptional food and beverage offering to our glorious playground of sport, country pursuits and leisure – inspires me every single day.”

He added: “I look forward to further enhancing this enviable profile and helping to nurture the legacy of this iconic brand for future generations.”

“Over the last eight months in his role as Hotel Manager, Conor has demonstrated strong leadership qualities and the impressive skillset and experience required to help us advance our ambitious vision,” said Bernard Murphy, Gleneagles’ Managing Director.

“His experience in some of London’s most prestigious properties, as well as his success overseas, has given him an international approach to operations, which is critical to this business and is helping us develop our offering.

“The last 18 months represent one of the most exciting periods in the hotel’s history, with significant investment from Ennismore ensuring our successful launch of three new bars, a new restaurant, a new café, a new residents’ lounge, and the refurbishment of around 80 bedrooms and suites.

“I look forward to working with Conor – as our investment programme continues at pace – to build on that success, forge new opportunities, and strengthen our position on the global stage.”