Dorchester Collection appoints new General Manager of Hotel Bel-Air, Los Angeles
Dorchester Collection has announced the appointment of Richard Cooke as general manager of its legendary Los Angeles hideaway Hotel Bel-Air, effective January 1, 2027. He joins from Rocco Forte Hotels, where in his role as managing director, UK & Northern Europe, he led the operations at London's Brown's Hotel as well as overseeing the compy's hotels across the UK, Belgium, and Germany. Richard brings more than 30 years of international luxury hospitality experience to his new role. Prior to joining Rocco Forte Hotels, he spent more than 15 years in senior leadership positions with Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, including general manager and area general manager roles in Asia and Canada. His earlier career was spent in food & beverage management across the US with Four Seasons, Regent Hotels, Ritz Carlton, and Rosewood.
Born and raised in the UK, Richard completed the general manager programme at Singapore Management University as well as executive education at the Cornell-Nanyang Institute of Hospitality, also in Singapore.
Philippe Leboeuf, chief executive officer of Dorchester Collection, said: “Hotel Bel-Air is unlike anywhere else; it's a much-loved legendary hideaway with a remarkable team, a deep creative spirit, and a rare sense of freedom. Richard's warmth, cosmopolitan perspective, and instinct for truly meaningful hospitality make him exceptionally well placed to lead this special hotel. We are delighted to welcome him to Dorchester Collection.”
Hotel Bel-Air is one of Los Angeles' most private addresses; hidden inside 12 acres of canyon gardens yet moments from the excitement of the city. It offers a world apart in which to move through LA differently. Richard's appointment as general manager follows on from the hotel being awarded the Michelin Guide's prestigious three-key rating as one of only two in LA, alongside sister-property The Beverly Hills Hotel.
Commenting on his appointment, Richard said: “To be Hotel Bel-Air's next custodian fills me with pride and excitement, and it's a true honour to join Dorchester Collection. I look forward to leading such an exceptional team as we write its next chapter. The US is where my family calls home. To be returning to California and to a hotel with such character, remarkable guests, and creative spirit is both meaningful and energising... Continue reading (Members Only) - Unlock Advantages with a LHN Membership - Read more here
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