Today, the University of Edinburgh Hospitality & Events Collection has announced the appointment of a new Group General Manager, Gavin MacLennan.

Equipped with over 30 years of experience, Gavin will become the strategic lead of hotel operations across the University’s four hotels and serviced apartments: The Scott, The Scholar, KM Hotel, and KM Apartments. His role will focus on developing a culture of continuous improvement, guest experience and employee satisfaction, furthering the success of the collection.

Commenting on his new position as Group General Manager, Gavin said: “The University of Edinburgh is a globally renowned brand synonymous with excellence, which is also mirrored through its commercial activities. I am thrilled to be part of its hospitality collection and have the opportunity to contribute to its success. One of my key priorities is to deliver outstanding customer service and foster a culture of staff engagement and empowerment to ensure that every guest interaction is a memorable one. I am looking forward to being part of a team that places such a strong emphasis on customer engagement and we will continue to enhance our services and exceed guest expectations

Lyndsay Wilkie, Director of Business Development, said: “Gavin’s appointment as Group General Manager marks another major step in our plans to elevate our hotel operations after our recent rebrand and refurbishment work on our multiple properties.

“Gavin comes into the position with decades of valuable experience and a proven track record in delivering exceptional customer service and we are excited to see how he will further develop the brand and our hotels.” 

Gavin embarked on his career in hospitality in the early 1990s and progressed through a multitude of roles with prestigious hotels such as The Balmoral Hotel and Marriott Dalmahoy.  Working his way through the hotelier ranks, he went on to hold positions such as Global Brand Marketing Director and Associate Director at Starwood Hotels & Resorts in the USA and Belgium respectively.

Gavin’s most recent position was closer to his roots, as the Cheval Collection’s Complex General Manager in Edinburgh. The experience of managing three properties throughout Edinburgh lends itself to his new position, where he will leverage his extensive experience, excellent relationship-building skills and keen eye for detail to drive success and implement first-class guest service.