DoubleTree by Hilton Coventry Building Society Arena has appointed a new Hotel Manager as a major multi-million-pound refurbishment project approaches its final stage.
The four-star hotel has welcomed Mark Smith to lead the 121-bedroom property, bringing nearly 40 years of hospitality experience to the role. His career includes senior positions at hotels across the UK, most recently overseeing the serviced apartment portfolio for Coventry University.
Mark has previous experience within the Hilton family, having spent almost seven years at Hilton Warwick/Stratford-upon-Avon and two years as General Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Milton Keynes.
The hotel has recently completed the refurbishment of all guest bedrooms, alongside upgrades to public areas and corridors. As part of the project, room categories have expanded from seven to 13, including pitch view rooms, family rooms, and additional suites. Premium rooms now also feature in-room fitness suites.
The refurbishment programme has also delivered a new guest lounge overlooking the main atrium, as well as enhancements to the hotel’s restaurant, Faradays.
In 2026, the project is set to enter its final phase, with significant upgrades planned for the ground floor, including the hotel lobby and reception area.
“I’m joining the hotel at an exciting time, with the refurbishment nearing completion and the Arena seeing major growth too.
After a couple of years away from hotels, you really do miss the buzz. I already knew some of the team at the venue and hotel from my time with Hilton previously, so it felt like the right time and the perfect fit when the opportunity arose.
I know the Coventry and wider West Midlands market very well and with the recent investment we have a fantastic platform to build from.
The busy events schedule at the Arena will continue to provide the bedrock of our business, but the next stage is to grow the hotel as a destination.
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It’s a great opportunity for me. I’m looking forward to building the team, supporting its development and ensuring we continue to deliver the high standard of experience that guests expect from Hilton.”
Paul Michael, Managing Director at Coventry Building Society Arena, said: “It’s fantastic to be welcoming Mark to the team, and his extensive experience will be crucial as the hotel continues to grow and develop.
Mark brings a strong background in the Hilton family and the wider hospitality sector, alongside the commercial insight and strategic approach required to operate the hotel within a large, multi-functional complex.
The response to the investment has been incredibly positive so far, with the expanded room categories enabling the hotel to continue providing a premium, varied and modern experience for guests.”
The article DoubleTree by Hilton Coventry Building Society Arena appoints new Hotel Manager first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.