Published on
August 20, 2025
Pennyhill Park Hotel in UK has strengthened its hospitality leadership with the appointment of a new general manager. Exclusive Collection has appointed Joanne Taylor-Stagg as the new general manager of its prestigious Pennyhill Park property. This appointment follows the departure of Graham Copeman, who served in the role for six years and left in May. Taylor-Stagg, a seasoned hotelier, brings extensive experience in luxury hotel management, having previously held the position of general manager at The Athenaeum. She stepped down from The Athenaeum earlier this year following a company restructuring that led to several job redundancies.
Joanne Taylor-Stagg’s career in the hospitality industry spans several notable luxury properties, adding significant value to Exclusive Collection’s leadership team. Before her tenure at The Athenaeum, Taylor-Stagg honed her management skills at other renowned hotels such as The Capital and The Trafalgar St James, both known for their exceptional service and iconic status within London’s hospitality scene.
Danny Pecorelli, managing director of Exclusive Collection, shared his enthusiasm about Taylor-Stagg’s appointment, praising her extensive experience in managing five-star hotels and her reputation as a highly respected figure within the hospitality sector. He specifically mentioned her people-first approach, emphasizing her dedication to mentoring and developing aspiring talent within her teams. This focus on personal development is expected to play a pivotal role in her leadership at Pennyhill Park, where she will be responsible for overseeing the hotel’s 240-strong team.
Pennyhill Park is one of the most iconic properties in Exclusive Collection’s portfolio, housed in a stunning 19th-century country house. The hotel boasts 124 luxurious bedrooms, a 45,000-square-foot spa and a Michelin-starred, 5 AA rosette restaurant, Latymer, led by the acclaimed chef Steve Smith. The restaurant’s culinary excellence and commitment to offering an unforgettable dining experience make it a standout feature of the property.
In addition to Latymer, Pennyhill Park is home to Hillfield Restaurant and Bar, which adds to its reputation for offering high-quality dining options. This combination of outstanding accommodations and world-class dining positions Pennyhill Park as a prime destination for luxury travellers seeking both relaxation and exceptional service.
Exclusive Collection, which includes properties like South Lodge, Lainston House, Fanhams Hall and The Castle Inn, has consistently been a leader in the luxury hospitality sector. In 2021, the group became the first UK hotel collection to receive B Corp certification, a prestigious recognition for its commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
Taylor-Stagg’s leadership at Pennyhill Park aligns with Exclusive Collection’s values of sustainability, excellence and fostering a people-first environment. Her appointment reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards of service while continuing to evolve and meet the needs of today’s luxury travellers.
With Taylor-Stagg at the helm, Pennyhill Park is poised to continue its legacy as one of the premier luxury hotels in the UK. Her expertise in luxury hospitality, combined with her people-focused approach to leadership, will undoubtedly strengthen the property’s exceptional team and elevate its already prestigious reputation.
As Pennyhill Park and Exclusive Collection move forward under her leadership, the hotel’s continued focus on providing outstanding service, wellness offerings and memorable dining experiences will remain a top priority.
