Sir Jim Milne’s Balmoral Group has appointed a hospitality sector veteran to run its recently purchased five-star Marcliffe Hotel & Spa in Aberdeen.
Balmoral said Peter Walker, who has more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry and most recently served as general manager of Fonab Castle Hotel and Spa, “brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for excellence to this iconic establishment”. Mr Walker was previously assistant general manager at The Marcliffe, and was married at the hotel.
It added: “Peter has a distinguished career, having worked at some of Scotland’s most recognised hotels.”
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Prior to his post at Fonab, Mr Walker spent five years at Maryculter House in Aberdeen, with Balmoral Group declaring he delivered “outstanding results” there.
Balmoral Group said: “His career also includes successful tenures at Ardoe House and Meldrum Country House Hotel & Golf Club, where he was instrumental in repositioning the hotels to enhance their market position.”
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It added: “Notably, Peter is no stranger to The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa. From March 2005 to May 2009, he served as assistant general manager under the previous owner, Stewart Spence. Peter holds fond memories of his time at The Marcliffe and is delighted to return.”
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Mr Walker said: “There is something truly special about The Marcliffe. I was married here in 2007 and completed my first training course at the hotel at the age of 15, when I first showed an interest in hospitality at school.
“It is an honour to come back to a place I hold in such high regard, and I am extremely excited about the future. The hotel has such huge potential and, with the backing of Balmoral Group, it’s an exciting time for the Marcliffe, and I look forward to welcoming guests, new and old.”
Sir Jim Milne, chairman and managing director of Balmoral Group, said: "We are delighted to finally announce Peter as our general manager. He is highly respected within the industry and shares our vision for the future of The Marcliffe.
“Peter is a proud local 'loon' - someone with a deep connection to this region. The Marcliffe is a special place for us both, as we each got married here, which makes this moment all the more meaningful. His track record of success speaks volumes, and it's that same ambition that will drive us forward. Local talent and ambition are at the heart of everything we aim to achieve, and having someone like Peter who truly understands the spirit of this community ensures that our plans will be both impactful and deeply rooted in the local culture.”
Sir Jim added: “We are confident that under Peter’s leadership The Marcliffe will thrive and maintain its status as one of the best hotels in Scotland."
Balmoral Group said: “Peter Walker's appointment marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the hotel’s legacy make him the ideal leader to drive the hotel forward, ensuring it remains a cherished destination for both local and international guests.”
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