Gillian Thomson – Operation Specialist
Gillian Thomson is a luxury hospitality operator with some 15 years experience bringing a wealth of experience in operating at the highest level within the hotel and restaurant market with specific reference to five star AA rosette properties and Michelin star rated restaurants.
Industry Expertise
Gillian joined Gordon Ramsay Holdings at a time where it had only 2 restaurants. During the next 8 years, Gillian worked very closely with Gordon, his business partner Chris Hutcheson to help expand the group to 23 operations across 4 continents. As Global Head of Operations, Gillian was responsible for all aspects of the commercial trading and operation of the locations and the opening of new locations.
Prior to joining GRH, and after completing a BA in Hotel and Hospitality Management at the University of Strathclyde, Gillian joined Millennium & Copthorne Hotels PLC originally in Glasgow before moving to London as Director of Food and Beverage at their flagship London property, The Millennium Knightsbridge. Her career there covered all departments from housekeeping to reservations, sales and marketing and of course food and beverage. It was whilst working as Director of Operations at the Millennium Bailey’s that she met world famous and multi Michelin star holder, Gordon Ramsay, through volunteering as part of the team arranging the inaugural Gordon Ramsay Scholar Award in 2001.
She is a highly experienced operator whose experience covers all aspects of hospitality trading from guest care and customer experience, to procurement, sales and marketing, PR, reservations and contract negotiations and working with some of most high profile and highly regarded hotel groups, operators and owners in the world.
With experience working with some of the industry’s leading players and in locations including Claridge's, The Savoy and The London Marriott Grosvenor Square, as well as luxury hotels in New York, Los Angeles, Dubai, Tokyo, Paris and Prague, she is ideally placed to assist in understanding and delivering the truly bespoke style and type of service required to satisfy discerning operators at this level and their equally discerning guests.
Interests
Gillian is a keen cook who enjoys experimenting with different styles and ingredients. Gillian additionally enjoys eating out and trying new restaurants, hotels and bars. Gillian has travelled extensively allowing the opportunity to combine her passions of food and drink with different cultures and experiences.
Gillian enjoys spending time with friends and family and walking her labrador, Henry.
