Sofitel London Heathrow appoints James Berry as general manager

The 605-bedroom Sofitel London Heathrow - located adjacent to Terminal 5 - has appointed James Berry as general manager.

He replaces Anna-Marie Dowling, who left the property in January to move to Bahrain as complex general manager of the Westin and Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre.

Berry, 38, has moved to the hotel, which is owned and managed by Arora Hotels under a franchise agreement with AccorHotels, from the same role at sister property, the Sofitel London Gatwick.

Prior to joining Arora, he spent four years with Guoman & Thistle Hotels, now known as GLH, as general manager at the Tower hotel and acting general manager of the Cumberland hotel, both in London.

Earlier in his 20 year career, Berry worked with Rezidor Hotel Group as general manager of Park Inn Peterborough and Park Inn Thurrock.

Vincent Madden, director of operations at Arora Hotels, said he was "delighted" to announce Berry's move to what is the largest and busiest airport hotel with the seven-strong group.

"Having worked with the Arora Group now for two years, James brings to Sofitel London Heathrow the essential operational and commercial expertise the hotel needs along with fundamental experience managing a large team to deliver first-class service to our loyal and frequent flying guests and meeting delegates every day."

Berry added that he was "extremely proud" that Arora had provided him with his "greatest career opportunity and challenge" to date. "With over 600 bedrooms and 45 conference rooms, the hotel excels in the conference and events market, whilst maintaining the highest standard of luxury travel experiences for guests. I am delighted to take it forward."

The Sofitel London Heathrow includes three restaurants: the three AA rosette La Belle Époque, alongside the Perrier-Jouët Champagne Bar); Vivre (hot wok, deli, grill and pizza) and the Tea 5 Salon; a 24-hour gym and spa with five treatment rooms.

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