Boss named for Radisson Blu Sheffield

Valerie Donaldson has been appointed as the general manager of the hotel, due to open in the Heart of the City development this summer.

The Victorian-façaded hotel will feature 154 rooms, with the front of the building overlooking the city’s Peace Gardens, Facilities include meeting and events spaces, a gym, and a high-end rooftop restaurant and bar.

Donaldson has been with the Radisson Hotel Group since 2008, and headed up the refurbishment and repositioning of Radisson Blu Hotel in Leeds between 2012 and 2015.

Prior to that, she was also part of the management team for the opening of Radisson SAS in Birmingham.

She said: “Sheffield is undergoing significant investment right now with the regeneration, and I’m thrilled that we are part of the transformation. I’m truly excited with the hotel plans; this is an amazing property which will play a big part in the city, and I cannot wait for it to open. My goal is to create a destination where people can relax, dine, meet-up, and enjoy themselves – a true hub within the city.”

Suzanne Speak, RHG managing director UK and Ireland, said: “Valerie has extensive experience in hotel openings and repositioning, as well as a proven track record within our group. There is no doubt that Valerie’s passion and commitment to excellence, along with her leadership skills, will play a key role in providing a first-class guest experience for the city of Sheffield.”

The hotel is currently undertaking a recruitment drive.