Rockliffe Hall raids Grantley Hall for two key hires

Rockliffe Hall has snapped up Grantley Hall’s director of operations Lewis Hunter as its new general manager and head of food and beverage Cameron Baxter as its new food and beverage director.

Hunter and Baxter both join the North East luxury resort after 18-month stints at North Yorkshire’s Grantley Hall. Prior to Grantley Hall Baxter worked at Gleneagles hotel and Egencia, while Hunter has previously held roles at the Dorchester, Gleneagles and private member’s club Skibo Castle.

In a LinkedIn post, Lewis said: “I’m very proud to share that I’ve started a new role as general manager at Rockliffe Hall hotel, golf and spa resort.

“It’s an incredibly exciting and important time to be joining the hotel as it is undergoing a major refurbishment and is preparing for the next phase of its journey. I feel incredibly privileged to take on this role and to lead such a talented team as we shape the future of this exceptional property.”

A LinkedIn post from Baxter said: "This is a truly exciting opportunity, and I am thrilled to be joining the team at such a pivotal time. As we look ahead to reopening fully later this year, I’m excited to play a part in shaping what promises to be a fantastic new chapter for Rockliffe — building memorable guest experiences, developing exceptional teams, and driving a dynamic and inspiring food & beverage offering.

"At the same time, I leave Grantley Hall with immense gratitude and very positive memories. It has been a privilege to be part of such a remarkable property and to work alongside so many talented and passionate professionals."

The AA-red-star 375-acre resort on the outskirts of Hurworth in Durham comprises 43 rooms and suites, alongside amenities including a 50,000 sq ft spa and 18-hole championship golf course.

Baxter and Hunter will join Rockliffe Hall’s senior leadership team including culinary director James Close, who spoke exclusively to The Caterer about Rockliffe Hall’s ‘reignited’ culinary offering last month.