Already an established general manager within the Thistle group, Knightley makes the move from its Hyde Park property to oversee the multi-million pound refurbishment of Thistle Kensington Gardens. Knightley has worked for Thistle for over 10 years and progressed through several roles in the business, starting as a trainee in the finance department and working his way up to his current role as general manager. In this new role, he will be responsible for taking Thistle Kensington Gardens through its multi-million pound refurbishment and re-launching it to the London market.
The significant investment will transform the hotel into a relaxing and stylish base for business and leisure guests. With all deluxe and executive rooms overlooking Hyde Park, guests can enjoy the luxury of outstanding views while just being a short distance from London's bustling West End.
The enhancement includes all of the hotel's public rooms - the entrance, restaurant, bar and reception - and its 175 bedrooms. The project is already fully underway with the entrance, bar, restaurant and two floors due to be completed in the first week of December. The remaining floors will be refurbished throughout the first half of next year with completion expected in August 2011.
Paul commented: "This is an exciting time for Thistle Kensington Gardens and I'm delighted to be given the opportunity to oversee the hotel's transformation into a contemporary base for visitors to London. I'm looking forward to catapulting the hotel into a new chapter and revealing its new identity to guests."