Michael Helling appointed GM of the Grove at Chandler's Cross
Luxury Hertfordshire hotel the Grove at Chandler's Cross has announced Michael Helling as its new general manager.
Helling returns to the 227-bedroom property after 10 years, having been its first director of food and beverage when it opened in 2003, and progressing to acting general manager by 2005.
He brings more than 30 years industry experience to the role, having also worked as general manager of the Aviator in Farnborough, and for three years at the Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels group. He also has experience of high-end cruise ships in the US; helped to open London restaurant-bar Sketch in 2000; and has worked closely with Conran restaurants (now D&D London) such as Quaglino's, Bluebird and Sartoria.
A graduate of the School for Hotel Management at the Hague, Helling began his career in his parents' restaurant. He will now manage the Grove's 480-strong staff.
Helling said: "I am excited to be at the helm to lead the team as we strive to continue to offer the very best experience possible for our wide range of guests and their needs. We are a people business and it is the loyal and engaged team here at the Grove that provides our competitive edge."
Set within 300 acres of parkland, the Grove is the former residence of the Earl of Clarendon. It now has a spa, golf courses, three restaurants, and events and conference space for up to 500 people.
One of its restaurants, Colette's, saw its head chef Russell Bateman crowned the Craft Guild of Chefs National Chef of the Year 2014.
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