UK: Luxury hotel group Starhotels has been appointed Stefano Squecco as cluster general manager of The Pelham, The Gore and The Franklin.
Squecco officially assumed his new role in January 2025, succeeding previous complex GM Thomas Orchard. Squecco most recently served as the general manager of St. James’s Hotel and Club in London.
Prior to this, he also held general manager roles at Blakes Hotel London and Pennyhill Park (part of Exclusive Collection), as well as operational roles in Italy at Rome Cavalieri, Grand Hotel Molino, Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal, among others.
At Starhotels, Squecco will work alongside J-J Pollak, hotel manager of The Gore, and Ryan Dunlop, hotel manager of The Pelham.
“I am honoured to join Starhotels and lead these three prestigious London properties – each of which has its own unique charm and personality,” said Squecco.
“We have exciting developments ahead, including refreshed menus by our talented chef Frederick Forster at The Gore’s 190 Queen’s Gate restaurant, authentic culinary creations at The Pelham’s La Trattoria by Alfredo Russo, and the launch of a brand-new afternoon tea menu at The Franklin, as well as upcoming culinary innovations at The Franklin Restaurant, also curated by Michelin-starred chef Russo.
“I’m excited to work alongside our talented team to continue creating exceptional experiences and unforgettable moments for our guests,” he added.
The Pelham, The Gore, and The Franklin are part of the 14 luxury properties of the Starhotels Collezione. Starhotels recently acquired the Hermitage Hotel & Resort in Forte dei Marmi in Tuscany, which will join the Collezione portfolio at the end of the 2025 summer season.
Key takeaways:
• Stefano Squecco has been appointed cluster general manager for The Pelham, The Gore, and The Franklin in London under the Starhotels Collezione brand.
• His appointment comes as the London portfolio will introduce new menus led by chefs including Michelin-starred Alfredo Russo.
• Squecco has managed luxury hotels in both London and Italy.






