Hotel du Vin and Malmaison veteran Robert Cook comes to Buzzworks

Robert Cook

Buzzworks Holdings has appointed former Hotel du Vin and Malmaison CEO Robert Cook as a new non-executive chairman.

A month on from the management buy-out by Kenny Blair – which revealed his ambition to expand the restaurant-based business into accommodation hospitality – Cook’s appointment is a clear signal that Blair intends to urgently pursue that diversification.

Cook has more than 35 years of experience in the premium hotel and accommodation sector, and his expertise in rooms, strategy and operational delivery will help support Buzzworks’ move into the accommodation space.

A young man sits smiling in front of a bar
Buzzworks’ Kenny Blair

Cook said: “I’ve admired Buzzworks’ growth and ethos for many years. It’s a business rooted in community, quality and ambition and I’m proud to be joining at such an exciting stage.

“There’s huge potential in their next chapter – particularly with the introduction of rooms – and I look forward to helping shape that journey.”

Blair commented: “Robert brings a depth of knowledge in accommodation that will be invaluable as we push forward with our growth strategy.

“His track record speaks for itself, and we’re pleased to have someone of his calibre join the board as we broaden our horizons and build on the strong foundations already in place.”