Clarke, who has spent 15 years working in sales and marketing within hospitality, will be based at the company’s headquarters in London where he’ll be responsible for developing business for member hotels in the meeting and incentives sectors.
Peter Gould, chief executive of Great Hotels said: “John’s strong background in hospitality sales and marketing will be a great asset to our member hotels and will strengthen our presence in the meetings, incentives and leisure markets. His experience is particularly strong in the MICE sector - a well-known industry figure with strong relationships with a variety of buyers.”
Event catering sales manager
Event caterers Payne and Gunter has also appointed a new sales manager to help boost new business, build relationships with existing clients and increase the profile of the brand.
Alana Bicknell, who has spent the past six years as head of events and sales for Compass at the Royal Albert Hall, said she would focus on building a sales strategy to drive business with both the corporate and agency sectors.
Payne and Gunter has provided catering for high profile events such as the Royal Windsor Horse Show and specialises in operating within iconic venues such as the Natural History Museum and the National Maritime Museum.