De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, a Grade II listed venue in Covent Garden, and part of De Vere’s collection of historic mansion house estates, distinctive contemporary hotels and event destinations, has announced the appointment of Emily Simmons-Wright as its new Director of Sales.
Emily joins the team with extensive experience in the hospitality and events industry having previously worked at Twickenham Stadium, Farnborough International and Eventist Group. Emily will lead the venue’s sales strategy at the central London venue, overseeing business development and client partnerships for meetings, conferences, corporate events and private celebrations.
In her new role, Emily will focus on driving new opportunities for the venue while strengthening relationships with existing clients and partners, helping to further position De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms as one of London’s premier destinations for large-scale events and conferences.
Commenting on her appointment, Emily Simmons-Wright said: “I’m delighted to be joining the team at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, an iconic London venue with such a rich heritage. I am looking forward to building on its strong reputation, driving momentum across the team and partnerships and ensuring every client and guest experience reinforces its position as one of the capital’s leading historic venues.”
John Davies, General Manager at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, said: “Emily brings a wealth of experience in the meetings and events sector, alongside a strong understanding of client needs and the London market. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue to build on the venue’s reputation as one of the capital’s leading destinations for conferences, meetings and special events.”
De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms offers 37 exceptional event spaces and can host up to 1,500 guests for a drink’s reception and 750 guests’ theatre-style in the Grand Hall, which features arched ornate ceilings, beautiful wood-panelling and dramatic chandeliers. For smaller events, there are several executive rooms, often with original features and oak-panelling, alongside a suite of modern training rooms.
Located just five minutes from Covent Garden and Holborn tube stations and within easy reach of Kings Cross, St Pancras and Euston train stations, the venue is well connected to major London transport links. Heathrow Airport is approximately one hour away by rail or road.
