One of York’s top hoteliers has stepped down after five years with a leading city hotel.

Simon Mahon, the General Manager of the 5-star The Grand York, is moving to Cornwall with his family, where he will be chief operations officer for the Watergate Hotel and related businesses.

The Liverpool-born 51-year-old joined the hotel, owned by the Splendid Hospitality Group, from the Edyn Aparthotel Group, replacing Philip Bolson. He has 35 years industry experience including at top hotels in Bangkok and London.

A company statement said: “Simon has been a cornerstone of the team, bringing dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His leadership has left a lasting legacy, particularly through the strong relationships he forged within York’s hospitality and tourism communities.”

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During Simon’s tenure, The Grand earned a reputation as one of the top luxury hotels in the UK.

Awards include The Cateys Hotel of The Year, 2022; Large Hotel of the Year at the Yorkshire Post Tourism Awards, 2024; Best Place to Work in Hospitality by The Caterer, 2024; Large Hotel of the Year by Visit England, 2024; and being named within the Sunday Times Top 100 Places to Stay for 2024.

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The hotel says the awards are a testament to the excellence of the hotel’s senior team and Simon’s focus on guest experience, team development, and community engagement.

A new General Manager has been appointed, who will be announced in the coming weeks. Until then Chris Cooper will be Acting General Manager.

The statement said: “Chris has been a vital member of The Grand’s team across the years, is known for his exceptional leadership and commitment to providing outstanding customer service.

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“He has played a key role in ensuring that The Grand maintains its high standards and remains a top destination for business and leisure travellers alike.”

The Grand York, based in a former Grade II-listed former railway headquarters, has 207 rooms, two restaurants- the 3AA Rosette Legacy, which opened in August 2022, and the more relaxed Rise, plus the Cookery School.

The hotel group says it takes great pride in staff development, training and skillsbuilding, with retention programmes designed to enhance professional growth. Such dedication to nurturing talent will continue.

The statement added: “The Grand, York is poised for continued growth, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for travellers. The hotel is excited for the next chapter and looks forward to welcoming a new General Manager in the coming months.”

Announcing his departure, Simon said on social media: “It turns out that leaving the Grand is a really difficult thing to do. It’s impossible to say goodbye to this beautiful city, wonderful business and amazing team without feeling more than a little sad, but I look back at the last few years and my heart is full.

“It’s been an incredible journey. What an absolute privilege to be a custodian of this truly special hotel during some of the most challenging times that hospitality has faced.  As a team we not only overcame those challenges but also achieved remarkable milestones…with a celebration or two along the way.

The Grand YorkThe Grand York (Image: Pic supplied)

“A heartfelt thank you to the wonderful community of York and to Splendid Hospitality for the amazing support and partnership. You have made this experience unforgettable…and great fun!

“Most of all, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my extraordinary team – your drive, excellence and care have been the reason for our success. I honestly couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished together. It has been an absolute honour to work with you all and to be a part of The Grand Family.”

York’s hospitality sector has reacted with sadness at Simon’s departure but wished him well.

Adam Wardale, chairman of HAY (Hospitality Association York) and general manager of Middletons Hotel said: “It's been a pleasure working with Simon during his time in York, he has been a great support of our ongoing community projects.

“Under his leadership The Grand has gone from strength to strength, winning numerous awards and continuing to elevate the guest experience at exceptionally high standards. Simons focus and care to people in the team is to be admired, he's been a real advocate for York and for hospitality and we wish him all the best.”

Sarah Czarnecki, the York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce President, a York hotelier, said: “Simon has been a wonderful colleague to work with. The successes enjoyed by him and The Grand are testament to his hard work, dedication and strong and inspiring leadership. York’s loss in Cornwall’s gain! I wish Simon every success for the future - he will be sadly missed by the city.”