Cassani hands over to new chief at Jurys Inns
Wednesday, 18 Nov, 2009
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Barbara Cassani has handed over the role of non-executive chairman at Jurys Inns Hotel Group to ex-lastminute.com chairman Brian Collie.
He is a former BAA main board director and a non executive director of Jurys Doyle Hotels Group.
Former Go boss Cassani has held the role since in April 2008 after the purchase of Jurys Inns by Quinlan Private.
In that period the company has undergone the fastest period of expansion in its history opening nine hotels, including its first in Europe, adding 1,400 rooms and creating 700 jobs. There are now 30 hotels in the chain.
Cassani saw the appointment of John Brennan, former Quinlan Private and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts executive, as chief executive.
Jurys Inn’s balance sheet has been supported in that time by the introduction of the Oman Investment Fund as 50% equity partner and a recent fundraising of £60 million to support future growth.
Cassani saw the appointment of John Brennan, former Quinlan Private and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts executive, as chief executive.
Jurys Inn’s balance sheet has been supported in that time by the introduction of the Oman Investment Fund as 50% equity partner and a recent fundraising of £60 million to support future growth.
The Irish company is in “advanced discussions” on new development opportunities to grow its presence in London over the coming years.
Brennan said: “Barbara has made a lasting contribution to the transformation of Jurys Inns. Her leadership during extremely challenging economic conditions leaves the business energised, focussed and confident that it can continue to outperform the market as the economy recovers.
“With highly supportive shareholders, a strong leadership team and a robust business model in place the job of preparing Jurys Inns for long term growth is well underway.
Brennan said: “Barbara has made a lasting contribution to the transformation of Jurys Inns. Her leadership during extremely challenging economic conditions leaves the business energised, focussed and confident that it can continue to outperform the market as the economy recovers.
“With highly supportive shareholders, a strong leadership team and a robust business model in place the job of preparing Jurys Inns for long term growth is well underway.
“Brian brings a wealth of business and leisure industry experience to help sustain the substantial progress we are making.”
Cassani said: “I am pleased that Brian Collie, a current board colleague, will succeed me as Chairman of Jurys Inns. Working alongside John Brennan and his team, Brian will ensure continuity in the leadership and growth of this promising hotel group.”
The company said it is driving performance through a cohesive programme focused on:
The company said it is driving performance through a cohesive programme focused on:
* growing market share and revenue
* cost reductions and business process improvements
* repositioning the brand and improving the customer experience
* continuing to grow with the addition of new room stock
The company said it was trading ahead of the market and starting to see improving trends with like for like occupancy in September and October ahead of last year.
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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