Simon Berry Became Managing Director of English Lakes Hotels

On 1 July 1998, Simon Berry became Managing Director of English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues, succeeding his father, Michael Berry OBE, who remained with the company as Executive Chairman. The appointment continued the Berry family's direct involvement in the leadership of the business and represented a generational transition in its day-to-day management. Simon had joined the family business in 1985, initially working in the accounts department. Before returning to the Lake District, he had trained and worked in hospitality, including roles at the Savoy, Claridge's and The Berkeley in London. As Marketing Director at English Lakes, he was involved in developments including Lancaster House Hotel and the conference centre and leisure club at Low Wood. Simon remained Managing Director for more than two decades, working alongside other members of the family and the wider management team. His appointment in 1998 established the leadership structure under which Michael continued as Executive Chairman until his death in 2004.