The AA Small Hotel Group of the Year has appointed Claire Johnston, who has decades of experience in the hospitality sector, as people director delivering all aspects of a human resources remit, driving recruitment and bolstering employee relations.

Previously Ms Johnston was regional human resources manager with Cairn Hotel Group looking after a number of multi-branded properties in both Scotland and the North of England. She has also worked for many of Scotland’s finest hospitality venues such as Auchrannie, Manorview Group and The Roxburghe Hotel.

Laura Dunphy has taken on the role of director of learning and development, a brand-new role within the company.

For the past three years, Ms Dunphy has worked at the Cameron House as head of learning and development, playing an instrumental part in the resort achieving a five-star status from the AA. In 2022, she achieved The Caterer Acorn Award which recognised the top 30 most talented hospitality leaders under the age of 30.

Ms Dunphy will oversee and expand the Crerar Hotels Academy apprenticeship programmes, graduate management programme and redefine induction and training throughout all properties.

Chris Wayne-Wills, CEO of Crerar Hotels Group, said: “It’s been an exciting start to the year, watching our teams grow and I’m thrilled that we’ve now also recruited two experts in their field to boost our People function. These senior appointments bolster our team significantly and firms up our commitment to our people.

“Claire and Laura are both welcome additions to Crerar Hotels Group, and I look forward to working with them to breathe fresh life into this part of the business with the focus on recruitment and early talent programmes, training and culture.

“Their combined expertise and experience will help us continue to grow throughout 2024 and I look forward to watching their contributions as we progress throughout the year.”