Cheval Collection CEO to retire after 17 years

George Westwell, chief executive of Cheval Collection, is to retire after 17 years at the helm of the serviced apartment collection and 50 years in the hospitality industry.

Westwell will step down and retire from Cheval on 5 March. A spokesperson could not confirm if a successor will be appointed to the role.

Mohammed S Almarzooqi, managing director of Cheval Collection, said: "It has been a pleasure to work with George, and on behalf of the board and our colleagues I want to thank him for his successful leadership of Cheval Collection. George has been an exceptional CEO and a driving force for Cheval Collection becoming the leading organisation that it is today.

"George has executed our leading strategy with a strong focus on evolving our brands, guest experience and loyalty proposition, as well as being a day-to-day inspiration, and breath of fresh air to all his colleagues. Although we are sorry to see him go, we respect and understand his decision to retire and know our paths will continue to cross."

Westwell said: "It has been an absolute privilege working for Cheval for 17 years. Working for such a dynamic, forward-thinking brand, alongside the most outstanding calibre of colleagues, is honouring. I am proud of the success of the brand and it has gone from strength to strength. From launching new properties in London to expanding further through the UK with our Edinburgh properties, to exciting upcoming growth in Europe and the Middle East, Cheval's ability to adapt and grow will never cease to amaze me.

"During 2020, we saw a 27% increase in our property inventory – we announced the expansion of the Cheval brand in Scotland with three new properties: Cheval the Edinburgh Grand, Cheval Old Town Chambers and Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments at Holyrood. This year, Cheval Old Town Chambers will see an additional 25 apartments join the 50 we already operate, and we are also opening a boutique collection of apartments in London – Cheval Lexham Gardens. Being an integral part of this expansion has been the perfect end to the most fulfilling career.

"I'm very sad to say goodbye but I know that I will watch Cheval continue to lead the way in serviced apartments with the expansion, loyal customer base, strategic vision and most importantly, world-class team that I am so grateful to call my colleagues and friends."