UK: Madhu Balakrishnan has been named general manager of the Oxford Witney Hotel, part of Focus Hotels.
Balakrishnan has been with Focus Hotels since April 2019, working at the Swans Nest Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon, the Mercure George Reading, and Mercure Shrewsbury Albrighton Hall.
Prior to this, he worked at some of the larger hotel chains including Hilton, Accor and IHG.
In total, Balakrishnan will be bringing nearly three decades of experience to his new role at the Oxford Witney Hotel.
Speaking about the appointment, Balakrishnan said: “I am very open to whatever opportunities the future may hold. I pride myself in being flexible and adaptable. I think the best way of planning for the future is to make the most of the present productivity, efficiency, collaboration, and goal setting.
“I want to ensure there are very efficient communications between the hotel and guests, with a responsive service, standardised content and services and personalised offers. When you’re targeting potential customers, it is important to listen to their needs, wants and challenges, and focus on these.”
Balakrishnan added: “Focus Hotels is a forward-thinking, supportive company that realises that employees are their greatest asset. I am working with professionals I can learn from and who will push me to take on new and challenging opportunities. I am treated with respect, given daily encouragement and feel valued for what I bring to the business.”
Lynn Hood, chief operating officer of Focus Hotels, said: “Madhu has 28 years of experience in the industry, which will be hugely beneficial to the post-pandemic business recovery at the Oxford Witney.
“His appointment is another example of how Focus Hotels seeks to recognise and reward those who demonstrate strong leadership skills and who embrace our ethos of putting people first, in terms of our own teams, our guests and our business partners.”
Oxford Witney Hotel comprises 115 bedrooms, a brasserie and bar, fitness centre, a pool, sauna and steam room, and flexible meeting rooms with capacity to accommodate 150 guests.
