Mark Payne
Mark is a prime example of a General Manager, demonstrating what hard work coupled with passion can achieve.
Mark's Journey
The role of a General Manager is vital for any hotel, requiring a wealth of knowledge and experience, demanding a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry, as well as exceptional leadership and problem-solving skills. Mark is a prime example of a General Manager, demonstrating what hard work coupled with passion can achieve, resulting in remarkable achievements that are a testament to his passion for the hospitality industry.
Prior to joining Michels & Taylor in April 2020, Mark began his career in the hospitality industry by serving at his parents’ pub in Hertfordshire. Since then, Mark rose through the ranks at Oxford-Abingdon Four Pillars Hotel as Conference and Banqueting Manager to Pre-Opening Project Manager/Deputy General Manager at Oxford Spires Four Pillars Hotel and General Manager at Oxford Thames Four Pillars Hotel from 2001 – 2004.
Mark owned and ran his own Gîte complex in France for six years before moving back to the UK in 2010 and held a variety of General Manager roles as well as a Commercial Director role at Oxford Fine Dining.
In April 2020 Mark joined Michels & Taylor as General Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham and most recently, was appointed as General Manager of the Hilton Bournemouth in February 2022. Mark’s current hotel boasts 177 room keys, three destination food and beverage outlets and a Spa, while successfully leading a large team.
Mark many great achievements include hosting the US Embassy for 4 weeks at Tortworth Court during NATO summit in Cardiff, being involved in two new hotel openings, taking on a £5.5 million pound hotel increasing its revenue to £10.2 million in 6 years and managing three-multimillion-pound refurbishments. Mark also passionate about giving back to the community by raising money for several charities including is Molly Olly’s Wishes, Babylifeline, CRY (Cardiac risk in Young) and Huntington’s disease.
Mark’s career journey serves as a prime example of excellence within Michels & Taylor and a testament to what can be achieved as a highly accomplished General Manager.