Director of sales appointed for North East hotel

One of the North East’s newest luxury hotels has strengthened its management team with the appointment of a Director of Sales.

Catherine Graham has joined the DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport hotel, tasked with increasing business and raising its profile within the region, across the UK and overseas.

The 41-year old, who lives in Sunderland, brings more than 17 years experience to the role, having started her career in travel and hospitality as Travel Trade Co-ordinator for the Swallow Hotel, Washington, Tyne and Wear.

Since then Catherine has held many busy roles, including nine years spent as Account Manager for Hilton Hotels Worldwide, where she managed 60 trade accounts and supported 90 UK hotels in generating leisure business, and most recently as Regional Sales Manager for Warner Leisure Hotels.

In her new role at DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport, part of the North East-based Cairn Group, Catherine will be responsible for marketing the 179-bedroom property to both corporate and leisure travellers, raising the regional profile of the DoubleTree by Hilton brand and bringing in business across all areas including accommodation, meetings and functions and food and beverages.

She will lead a team of three based at the hotel, adjacent to Newcastle International Airport, including the Meeting and Events Manager, the Revenue Manager and the Reservations Manager, with a view to generating business from the UK and through international visitors using the airport.

Catherine said: “I’ve enjoyed a great career in the hospitality industry for more than 17 years and I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to utilise this experience at the DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport.”

The DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport, which opened in December following a multi-million pound investment by the Cairn Group, houses 179 en-suite bedrooms, a 24-hour fitness suite, business centre, five meeting rooms and a large function suite.

It is also home to a private bar and a branch of leading North East Italian restaurant chain Fratello’s, with all visitors benefitting from free on-site car parking.

For more information call 01661 824266 or visit www.doubletree-newcastleairport.com<http://www.doubletree-newcastleairport.com/