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Six New General Managers Join Aimbridge EMEA’s UK & European Portfolio

Six New General Managers Join Aimbridge EMEA’s UK & European Portfolio

October 30, 2025 | Community, News, Openings, Our Team, Signings

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We are excited to announce the arrival of six fantastic new General Managers who’ve joined Aimbridge Hospitality EMEA, bringing fresh energy, expertise, and passion to our UK and European hotels.

Sujith Kattezhath Gopinathan steps into the role of General Manager at Mercure York Fairfield Manor Hotel. With a wealth of experience from Pilani Hotels Group—where he oversaw three properties in Derbyshire and Blackpool—and previous roles with Best Western, Country Inns, Radisson Blu, Compass Group, and Ramada, Sujith brings a broad and seasoned perspective to the team.

Michelle Hickey has been named General Manager at Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel. Known for her strong leadership and dedication to guest experience, Michelle is set to bring fresh energy to this iconic coastal property.

At Holiday Inn Southend, Saira Cieloszyk takes the helm as General Manager, while Nora Urbancova returns to Aimbridge as GM at Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station. Nora previously led Ibis Styles Manchester Piccadilly and brings valuable local insight and brand experience back to the portfolio.

Jacqueline Turpin has been appointed General Manager at The Harlow Hotel by Accor. Having transitioned from sales into GM roles within Aimbridge, Jacqueline has successfully led Holiday Inn Express Duxford-Cambridge and earned recognition for her focus on quality and performance.

Completing the line-up, Frederik Deman joins Holiday Inn Express and Suites Ghent as General Manager. Frederik brings global experience from previous GM roles, most recently at Le Sanglier des Ardennes in Durbuy, Belgium.

David Anderson, President at Aimbridge EMEA, commented: “Selecting the right general manager is vital for a hotel’s ongoing success and so, we’re thrilled to see six exceptional leaders take their places at the helm of a number of our UK and European properties. “Some are new to Aimbridge and others have developed professionally into management within the company, which is great to see. However, they all have invaluable experience and a genuine passion for hospitality in common, attributes that will serve their hotels and teams well, ensuring their respective hotels continue to thrive.”