Chepstow’s St Pierre, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club has appointed a new hotel manager to lead the team.

Matthew Smith joins St Pierre from Bristol’s Royal Marriott, where he most recently held the position of director of operations.

Originally from Stroud, Matthew has been a Marriott ‘associate’ for 14 years across its London, Bournemouth, Cardiff, Vienna and Bristol venues and will relocate to Cardiff for his new role in Chepstow.

Working in local pubs, catering for events in the Cotswolds and even serving Prince Charles at Polo events during his teenage years helped ignite Matthew’s passion for hospitality.

While studying hospitality management at Bournemouth University, he worked at the Conran restaurant in London as part of his course, which cemented his desire to pursue a career in hospitality. He then began making his mark at hotels in Bournemouth, beginning at the Hilton, followed by the Marriott.

Matthew completed the Marriott graduate programme at Marriott’s London Kensington Hotel, where he progressed to the position of revenue manager. He then became director of revenue for Marriott hotels in the South West region; which covered Cardiff, St Pierre, Bristol Royal and Bristol City, where he was also previously director of events.

Matthew said: “St Pierre has always been my favourite Marriott hotel, both to work in and visit as a guest. I love the calm atmosphere and the serene feel of the hotel. As the new hotel manager, I will lead the hotel team, helping them continue to deliver exceptional service and hold great and memorable events.

“I am excited to work with the talented team I have inherited and look forward to creating more memorable experiences for guests; whether they are visiting our spa and leisure facilities, our championship golf course, hosting guests at a wedding or enjoying a relaxing weekend away - this year will surely be another great year for the hotel!”

Matthew’s new role will also encompass developing the hotel’s excellent facilities and managing a rebrand of both the hotel’s Zest restaurant and golf shop.