Homewood appoints new F&B manager

Homewood Hotel and Spa has announced the appointment of Robert Fairbairn as its new food and beverage manager for the fully refurbished Somerset-based hotel after the reported approval of a £3m expansion plan to take place later this year. 

It is reported that Fairbairn is an “accomplished” leader in food and beverage operations and has a successful track record of raising standards of guest experience in luxury hotels across the UK. He began his career at the Novotel hotel group where his passion for hospitality began and has since gained over 10 years of experience at the forefront of luxury hospitality.  

He joins Homewood after leaving his outpost at Royal Berkshire Hotel in Ascot and the Manor House Hotel and Golf Club, Castle Combe where he progressed from graduate manager to senior outlets manager.

In his new role, Fairbairn will reportedly be responsible for managing all aspects of food and beverage outlets including, alfresco dining on the Olio Terrace, award-winning Olio Restaurant no-dig kitchen and garden, the dining domes, as well as a range of private dining spaces, breakfast services and the bar and cocktail offering. 

Fairbairn said: “I am ecstatic to be joining the Homewood family. I visited the property a few times prior to starting my new position and had that perfect welcome every time before anyone even knew me. I have a passion for Mediterranean cuisine, sharing platters and local produce which made Olio Restaurant and Terrace the ideal location. 

“In my role I hope to increase the number of local suppliers we work with. When it comes to both food and beverage, I believe that local is best and I am looking forward to getting started in trying out what Somerset has to offer. I also want to focus on the learning and development of my team since I believe that people are an important part of our industry, and it is vital that the correct training is in place for individuals to flourish.” 

He added: “I hope to create and develop a program with Kaleidoscope Collection to make it easier for those with a passion for Hospitality to find their potential. Family is the key word in the way I work; I believe that any leader should be there to show, guide and support their people’s development, and be there to listen to and try out new ideas.”