One of Leicestershire’s most popular four-star hotels has appointed a new banqueting manager.
Having benefitted from a multi-million pound investment to its conference and banqueting facilities, Richard Gray has now joined the management team of the Sketchley Grange Hotel in Hinckley where he will oversee the venue’s food offering which forms a major part of the many events, weddings, conferences, meetings and charity nights.
Richard started his hospitality career as a kitchen porter at an Italian restaurant. He then worked at the Thistle Hotel in Chenies, Buckinghamshire, followed by placements at venues in Nottingham, Birmingham, Worcester, Yorkshire and Liverpool where he looked after an assortment of rich and famous people including King Hussain of Jordan.
He now finds himself back on the Leicestershire / Warwickshire border where he hopes his knowledge and experience will make the Sketchely Grange Hotel the go to venue for those wanting a quality venue to host their event.
Richard said: “The investment in both the facilities and technology has significantly improved the offer here at the Sketchley Grange Hotel making it arguably the best equipped venue in the area for a range of requirements from big banqueting events, conferences, exhibitions, meetings or product launches.
“It’s important for venue’s like this to maintain a high level of facilities in line with market demand and what people now expect to see from a four-star venue. Those who haven’t been here recently should come and see the changes.
“The venue has become a significant asset for the Leicestershire and Warwickshire region, attracting business people from all over the UK. It is also popular with local people wanting for example somewhere for a wedding breakfast, charity event or meeting.
“It’s important that we now match the high level of facilities with service and food that our customers deserve which will help place the hotel and area on the map for those looking for a venue of this quality.”
Just two minutes from the M69 the venue benefits from over 200 free parking spaces and also has a licence for helicopter landings.
Paul Noble, general manager at the hotel added: “It’s great to have someone with Richard’s experience on board and I’m looking forward to working with him and to build on what has become a fantastic facility here in Hinckley.”