Ross McLean has been appointed as the new Director of Hospitality to lead the ‘world-class guest experiences’ at The Royal Yacht Britannia and its sister ship, the luxury floating hotel Fingal, in Edinburgh’s Port of Leith.
Originally from Scotland, Mr McLean, 39, brings over 19 years of global hospitality management experience to his new position leading the crew of over 100 staff working across both ships.
Most recently, he was the General Manager of Operations at Millbrook Resort in Queenstown, New Zealand, which is regarded as one of the Southern Hemisphere’s premier golf resorts, regularly winning awards as one of the best in the world.
But Ross started his hospitality career in the restaurant sector, where he was awarded Young Restaurateur of the Year and was a HIT Scotland ‘Art of Leadership’ scholar.
Widely travelled and with a passion for the industry, Mr McLean’s experience is being tapped to ensure continuity following the retirement of the operation’s former chief executive, Bob Downie.
McLean said: “It’s a real honour to build on my 10 years leading the Millbrook Resort in New Zealand by taking on this key role with Britannia and Fingal – two such unique venues with strong heritage and stories to tell.
“I look forward to creating even greater synergies between the UK’s top tourist attraction and our luxury floating hotel.”
New chief Executive, Franck Bruyère, said: “I’m delighted to announce Ross’ well-deserved appointment, which will strengthen our leadership team across our two iconic ships. Ross will be key to delivering operational excellence and maintaining what has made us great over the years.
“With our former chief executive, Bob Downie, retiring, we have big shoes to fill, but I feel with Ross joining the crew, I have a strong team of leaders in place to navigate the next chapters for both ships.”
