Mayo's Ashford Castle announces two key appointments

THE Red Carnation Hotel Collection has announced two new appointments for the Ashford Castle hotel and estate – Ireland’s first and only Forbes Five-Star Hotel and Spa.

The announcement includes the appointment of Gregory Brossard, who will join the team as hotel manager at Ashford Castle, while Lisa Toomey will assume a new leadership position on the estate as director of quality.

Gregory joins the Ashford Castle team after almost two years working at the Conrad Hotel in Dublin as director of operations. Hailing from France and boasting a globe-trotting CV, Gregory started his hospitality career as a senior waiter at the Michelin-starred Le Cinq restaurant, located in the George V, Four Seasons Hotel in France. Over his 23-year career, he has also worked at some of the top luxury hotels in the world, including The Ritz-Carlton in Kyoto, Japan, and Conrad Bora Bora Nui, on the French Polynesia islands.

Speaking about joining the Ashford Castle team, Gregory said: “It is an honour to join the team at Ashford Castle, a property with such an extraordinary heritage and commitment to excellence. I look forward to working alongside a world-class team to continue delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests.”

Meanwhile, Lisa Toomey, who precedes Gregory as hotel manager, will assume a brand-new senior role as director of quality for the wider Ashford Castle Estate.

Hailing from Bunratty in Co. Clare, Lisa started her career at Ashford Castle in 2017. Her new responsibilities will see her ensure all aspects of operations at Ashford Castle and The Lodge at Ashford Castle meet and exceed guest expectations.

Working closely with the operations team, Lisa will guarantee that the quality standards set out by Red Carnation Hotel and the Forbes Travel Guide are continually met across all departments while driving innovation in service delivery and guest experience.

Speaking about her new role, Lisa said: “Ashford Castle holds a very special place in my heart, and I am thrilled to continue my journey here in a role dedicated to maintaining the highest standards across the estate. I am passionate about delivering excellence and look forward to helping lead our incredible team in crafting extraordinary experiences for our guests.”

Commenting on the appointments, Niall Rochford, managing director of the Ashford Estate, said: “These appointments underscore our ongoing commitment to excellence and to maintaining Ashford Castle’s reputation as one of the world’s top hotels. Gregory brings an outstanding track record in luxury hospitality, with a clear passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences. Lisa, a long-serving and highly respected member of our team, has consistently demonstrated exemplary standards of service and leadership.

“Both Gregory and Lisa will play a pivotal role in shaping the continued success of Ashford Castle and the wider estate.”