A NEW general manager has been appointed to take the helm at York’s only five-star hotel.

Splendid Hospitality Group (SHG) has brought in Philip Bolson to take on the role at The Grand Hotel & Spa.

He joins the Station Rise hotel as it starts the final stages of a £15 million redevelopment which will include new restaurants and additional bedrooms.

Stuart Bailey, chief executive of Splendid Hospitality Group said: “We are thrilled that Philip is joining The Grand Hotel & Spa team.

“With the hotel’s exciting redevelopment project in full swing it is perfect timing for him to take the reins.

“Philip has superb operational skills which are ideal for launching and managing hotels. His flair for imbuing his team with his passion for good service, makes him the perfect fit for the job.”

Mr Bolson joined SHG in 2015 working as operations director, which saw him oversee the management of hotels across the portfolio as well as the opening of the boutique Hotel Indigo York in Walmgate and the acquisition of several key hotels including the Ibis York Centre and The New Ellington in Leeds.

He was also a key member of the team rolling out the company’s innovative approach to HR, The Splendid Hospitality Purpose & Way.

Mor Bolson said: “Over the years, The Grand Hotel & Spa has been a great success story for York and I am delighted to join the team as it enters a new, even more exciting chapter.

“We have really talented staff at The Grand and every one of them is committed to making sure that the hotel surpasses our 5 AA star credentials.”

The Grand Hotel & Spa is currently recruiting restaurant and bar staff for its brand new 140-seater restaurant set to open later this year.