Simon Willis is Elite Hotels’ well-travelled Director of Operations, and proof that a long-term career with the company is as achievable as it is rewarding.
Having studied for a Degree in Economics & Politics at Lancaster University, followed by HCIMA professional Diploma (Hotel Management) from Westminster College, London, Simon gained experience working abroad.
His travels took him to Germany and Austria where he worked in a restaurant and as a rep for a travel company - well and truly catching the hospitality bug!
London was his destination upon returning to England, working on the front desk at The Royal Garden Hotel and the Savoy Hotel over a 4 year period.
Simon’s association with Elite Hotels began in 1997 where he took the role of Reception Manager and then Front of House Manager at Tylney Hall (pictured at the top of this blog).
In 2002 Simon joined the ‘group’ working as Sales Manager for 2 years. From there it was across to Ashdown Park Hotel for a year as their Business Development Manager.
In 2006 Simon took up the role of Group Operations Manager which evolved into Group Operations Director in 2009.
Reflecting on his time with Elite, Simon said “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Elite Hotels for so long and feel my hard work has been rewarded with many opportunities to develop my career. I feel extremely fortunate to have worked in, and for, our wonderful properties for over 20 years.”