The Belfry appoints new managing director to oversee £30m refurb

26-Nov-2012 - Last updated on 26-Apr-2021 at 17:47 GMT

Lynn Hood, The Belfry's new managing director, who will oversee the golfing resort's £30m refurbishment next year

The Belfry has appointed former City Inn operations director Lynn Hood its managing director to help oversee a £30m refurbishment of the famous golf resort, hotel and conferencing facility.

Work will commence on the 324-bedroom hotel, which includes bars and restaurants, a nightclub and spa alongside the world-famous Ryder Cup golf course, in January following its purchase by American investment firm KSL Capital Partners in August.

The resort's golf shop and Sam's Bar will be first on the agenda for refurbishment work with other areas set to follow. The Warwickshire resort will remain open while work is carried out.

'Former glory'

KSL, which runs nine premier resorts in the US, had noted its intention of restoring The Belfry to its 'former glory' when it bought it in August and appointed De Vere Venues to manage it.

Hood said: “It is a very exciting project because The Belfry has the perfect partner in KSL who are experienced in taking over a number of established resorts and restoring them to their former glory and their expertise will prove extremely beneficial.

“We are working on the development plans and we will have detailed drawings to show to our extensive customer base quite soon.

“As well as ensuring the best possible customer experience I will be concentrating on the sales and marketing elements of the redevelopment project as we move to re-position The Belfry with new and long-standing customers."

Hood, who started her career 20 years ago with Walt Disney in America and who has been general manager at Malmaison in Glasgow, said the refurbishment would be sympathetic to the needs of current guests and staff, but would also endeavour to attract new guests.

She said: “It was apparent from the moment I walked through the doors that there is a great deal of pride felt here both from customers and from the team. The fact we have many people who have worked here a long time underlines their commitment and love for their work.

“The buzz felt here is emphasised by The Belfry Bar which is a real hub since it is such a fantastic meeting place for the business community.”