Michael Davern, who delivered and hosted Ireland’s first ever Ryder Cup while at the K Club Golf resort, has been appointed as general manager to lead the team at Seaton House in St Andrews.
Dating back to 1864, Seaton House, which overlooks the first tee of the town’s iconic Old Course, was once known as the Scores Hotel. The hotel’s operator, Valor Hospitality Partners, confirmed Davern’s appointment ahead of the property’s restoration and reopening, which is scheduled for early 2025.
With forty-two luxury bedrooms, including five suites and three junior suites, Valor’s plan is for Seaton House to offer five-star luxury hospitality in the heart of St Andrews, just a five-minute walk from the town’s many historic attractions, artisan shops, cafes and fine dining experiences.
Davern, who was recognised as World General Manager of the Year by Preferred Hotels and Resorts in 2016, joins the Valor team from Anantara’s The Marker Hotel in Dublin’s docklands, where he has worked as general manager since October 2021.
Davern said: “I have managed a number of well-known hotels but the opportunity to restore a local landmark to its rightful place in the heart of the community was too good to miss.
“Moving to Seaton House offers the chance to be part of something truly special and work in a town with such a proud history that can be felt around every cobbled corner. It is also a great opportunity to work alongside the amazing people at Valor Hospitality.
“We are busy assembling a wonderful team and I am really looking forward to working alongside so many like-minded people, like the amazing Roy Brett, chef-patron of the renowned Ondine in Edinburgh,” said Davern.
“With restaurants, a bar and outdoor terrace, Seaton House will provide a culinary experience like no other. Guests will be treated to à la carte and all-day dining using the finest locally sourced ingredients and expertly selected wines and whiskies.
“From our first greetings, guests staying at Seaton House will feel our warm and genuine Scottish hospitality, in a space that resonates with their needs, in this charming old town.”
Global co-founder & chief executive officer of Valor Hospitality Partners, Euan McGlashan, added: “We are incredibly fortunate and excited to have Michael lead the charge for us at Seaton House. He is a world-class operator and is widely known in the global golf hospitality industry.
“I’ve known Michael personally for over 28 years. We first met when we both worked in South Africa, when he was managing the iconic golf resort, Fancourt in George and I was managing Cape Grace in Cape Town.
“Seaton House will benefit from his eye for detail, guest experience delivery, warmth with his team and peers, and his high energy. This will ensure we deliver on the Valor promise of best-in-class culture and commercial delivery.”
The relaunched hotel is expected to employ 70 people.
