Edward Griffiths, former Deputy Master of the Royal Household, has been named as the new chairman of Portico and Searcys, both part of the wider WSH business.
Griffiths will be working closely with the managing directors and senior management teams of the two businesses, providing strategic guidance and support across their UK operations.
Both businesses focus closely on customer care as part of their core operating models. Portico provides front of house and reception services and Searcys provides catering and event management at venues across the country.
It was announced that Edward Griffiths was to join the WSH board in October 2014, following 14 years working as Deputy Master of the Royal Household. His vast experience in the industry spans across hotels, including the Dorchester in London, Mövenpick in Switzerland and the Southern Sun Hotels in South Africa, right the way through to senior roles within the restaurant and catering industry, where he was managing director of Roux Fine Dining and sat on the Board of Roux Restaurants. He moved to the Royal Household in 2001.
Alastair Storey, chairman of WSH, said: “We are delighted that Edward has joined the business and, in particular, his chairmanship of Searcys and Portico. Edward’s experience is unrivalled and we are really excited about the impact he will have on our company. A commitment to developing our teams is integral to our business and we are sure that Edward’s passion for excellence will help drive this forward in the future.”