Charlene Phipp named Spa Professional of the Year 2023

Charlene Phipp, Pennyhill Park’s spa manager, has been named Spa Professional of the Year 2023.

Phipp was awarded the title at the 2023 Hotel Cateys, organised by The Caterer magazine, at a ceremony at London’s Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel.

She was recognised for her people-centric approach to managing the 4,100sqm wellness centre at Pennyhill Park, part of the Exclusive Collection.

Overseeing record membership levels, Phipp was praised for championing innovative treatments and wellness routines while also placing a focus on developing a team of 59.

South Lodge, also part of the Exclusive Collection – which is the UK’s first B Corp certified hotel group – was named Sustainable Hotel of the Year at the Cateys.

The West Sussex hotel was recognised for combining significant green initiatives with sound business sense and ‘setting an example on sustainability‘.

South Lodge holds B Corp certification

Dan Wait, general manager at South Lodge, said: “This win means so much to the South Lodge team as we’ve all made a massive commitment to sustainability through our B Corp certification.

“Being sustainable is in our bones at South Lodge. Our ongoing focus continues to be on challenging, changing and championing every touchpoint in the hotel to minimise our impact on the planet.”

Outstanding Contribution Award

Whatley Manor’s outgoing general manager, Sue Williams, was honoured with the Outstanding Contribution Award.

One of the most respected hoteliers in the UK, since joining Whatley Manor from Cliveden House in 2016, Williams has overseen a major sustainability drive at Whatley Manor and become a leading industry voice on green issues.

She will step down from her position this month to pursue a consultancy role.

Northcote managing director, Craig Bancroft, described Williams as one of the “greatest hoteliers in the true sense of the word” adding that “she is genuine and sincere in all that she does and has achieved.”

Exclusive Hotels managing director Danny Pecorelli added that Williams was a “true leader of the hospitality industry” who has helped launch many people’s careers.

Sign up here to receive our weekly news delivered direct to your inbox