The Gurus: Stuart Johnson, Managing Director, Brown's Hotel

In October 2020, Stuart Johnson celebrated his 16-year anniversary at Rocco Forte Hotels. Stuart's career progressed from positions at The Savoy, Claridge's and The Connaught; including General Manager at Cliveden, Publishing Director of the UK Hotel Guide (Condé Nast) and General Manager at Brown's. Stuart has also worked in Shanghai where he oversaw the early development of the Westbund Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel, scheduled to open next year and as General Manager at The Assila Hotel, Jeddah. Stuart returned to Brown's in 2018 as Managing Director.

What does it mean to you to be named a Walpole 2020 Power List winner?

Walpole is such a powerful and respected organisation supporting and promoting British luxury. It is an organisation I have been part of since its inception, and thus it is a huge honour to be recognised as one of its peers.

Why do you think you were named on the List this year?

I am part of a team leading one of the greatest English luxury hotels, a position I have held for 16 years. I pride myself in flying the flag for British luxury and nurturing young talent within our industry. I have led this team through the highs and lows, and proudly watched the hotel evolve with the times to become a truly modern luxury British icon.

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