Holmes bids sad farewell to Ritz

TERRY Holmes, managing director of the Ritz for the past seven years, left yesterday, handing over management of the five-star hotel to Hong Kong-based Mandarin Oriental.

As reported exclusively by Caterer two weeks ago, Mandarin has moved Briton Brian Williams from its hotel in Macau to become general manager of the 129-bedroom Ritz.

Mr Holmes, who wished Mr Williams well in his new role, said he was very sorry to be leaving but was already discussing a number of opportunities, including a project to run his own hotel.

He dismissed with a laugh suggestions that he had received a £200,000 pay-off from the Ritz's owner, Trafalgar House, but admitted he was "very happy" with the settlement.

Mandarin managing director Robert Riley told Caterer: "Our intention is to maintain the long tradition of fine service at the hotel. Our goal is to work with the balance of the staff who have done such a good job here."

Trafalgar's decision to give a management contract to its Hong Kong-based sister company follows an abortive attempt to sell the Ritz last year.