The company behind plans to revive one of Liverpool’s most iconic buildings into a luxury hotel has announced the appointment of a new Managing Director , as part of a restructure to facilitate its business expansion plans.
David Hughes has over 16 years’ experience working in the leisure and hospitality industry and now joins Signature Living as it prepares for the launch of its newest venue, 30 James Street, later this year.
Working with hospitality heavyweights such as Whitbread, IHG and Hilton, David has successfully managed a long list of expansions and new hotel openings. David has also worked alongside top chefs Marco Pierre White and Simon Rimmer.
Signature Living
Founded in 2008 by Lawrence and Katie Kenwright, Signature Living is Liverpool’s premium provider of luxury serviced apartments and apart-hotels, offering over 300 beds across the city at locations including Matthew Street, Stanley Street, Bold Street and Victoria Street. Their latest investment will see the former White Star Line building at 30 James Street transformed into a luxury hotel and restaurant.
In his new role, David will be responsible for the overall performance of the business on a day to day basis, helping to project manage the launch of 30 James Street, as well as providing strategic support to drive forward the growth of the wider business.
David said: “Lawrence and Katie’s vision, creativity and understanding of their market have made Signature Living one of the most successful serviced apartments and hotel groups in Liverpool, and it’s my role to help them develop the brand and take the business forward, with a particular focus on 30 James Street.
“First class staff, first class service and a desire to consistently exceed customer expectations are at the core of our shared values, and I am hugely excited to be joining the Signature Living team at the start of what promises to be a very busy and exciting year.”
1,000 beds by end 2014
As part of expansion plans, which include the launch of 30 James Street in April this year, the company hopes to grow this offering to 1,000 beds by the end of 2014.
Lawrence Kenwright, said: “We are delighted to welcome David to the team. His passion and extensive knowledge of the local landscape and the industry was a key factor in our decision to bring him on board.
“Our hotel offering in the city is going from strength to strength and David’s arrival will allow us to concentrate on strengthening this offer and drive forward the growth of our business.”
Stephanie McDonald. GM, Stanley Street
In addition to David, Stephanie McDonald will also join the Signature Living team as General Manager based at the Stanley Street hotel. Stephanie has over 12 years’ experience managing hotels and will now oversee the running of all existing apartments in the company’s portfolio as well as the Stanley Street hotel.
30 James Street
30 James Street – the home of the Titanic – is a £7m development of the grade two listed building Albion House, into a 360 bed luxury hotel. The hotel will also feature the Carpathia Champagne bar and restaurant on the eight floor, which will offer breath-taking views of the Liverpool skyline.
Originally designed as a first class lounge and ticketing area, the White Star Grand Hall will become one of Liverpool’s top wedding venues, accommodating up to 200 people for daytime and evening celebrations.
For more information about Signature Living click here
For more information about 30 James Street click here