Interstate Europe Hotels & Resorts MD to retire after 17 years
Northam will join from 24 October, although Crook – who has been with the company for over 17 years ‒ will continue to play an advisory role throughout 2017.
Northam will report directly to Kenneth McLaren, Interstate Europe’s executive vice president for international operations, and brings over 30 years’ experience to the role.
He will now play a significant role in the company’s growth, including 22 properties already signed and scheduled over the next two years.
Northam’s career includes more than two decades of hotel operations experience, including overseeing 63 Marriott properties with the Whitbread Hotel Company, and was most recently vice president of asset management across a portfolio of 35 Realstar Hotels – a role he held for ten years.
Crook departs the company after helping it reach a UK portfolio of 80 properties including the current signed pipeline. Overall, the group comprises 106 hotels – including the current signed pipeline ‒ in 10 countries across the UK, Europe, and Russia.
Crook said: “The decision hasn’t been an easy one to make – the company is experiencing a fantastic period of growth and thanks to the expertise of the senior management team, we’re expanding our portfolio of hotels at a rapid rate. I’ve decided to turn my focus to my family life, with overseas travel at the heart of that plan, and hand over the reins to [Northam].”
Jim Abrahamson, Interstate Hotels & Resorts’ chief executive officer, said: “I want to thank Robert for his invaluable contributions and passionate dedication in leading a dynamic operation in the UK. Under his leadership, Interstate has gained tremendous momentum and built an excellent reputation with a team who is focused on providing exceptional service to our owners and guests, and delivering terrific results.”
Northam said: “It’s an honour to be stepping into Robert’s shoes. The company has been through some big changes under his leadership. I’m looking forward to working with them to continue taking the company forward and building value for our hotel owners in the months and years to come.”
