leaf HOSPITALITY, one of the UK’s leading hotel management companies for branded and independent hotels, has appointed Jonathan Mills as Chief Operating Officer, a newly established position aimed at driving the company’s next phase of growth. Jonathan joins the team in September following the company’s recent milestone: the opening of its latest managed property, DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield City, located at the historic Bramall Lane stadium, home of Sheffield United Football Club.

With over 30 years of international hospitality experience, Jonathan is returning to the U.K. after 16 years in Singapore, Thailand and The Netherlands. He has an impressive track record of transforming commercial and operational performance at leading hospitality brands, including Hilton, IHG, Wyndham Destinations, and most recently as CEO of Choice Hotels EMEA. With expertise spanning franchised, affiliated, and managed estates, Jonathan brings a wealth of knowledge to this new role, where he will oversee all aspects of operations at leaf HOSPITALITY.

Richard Farrar, Managing Director, leaf HOSPITALITY comments, “Jonathan and I first worked together 20 years ago at Hilton. Jonathan was a huge inspiration to me back then and has remained so ever since. He is an outstanding leader, an exceptional communicator, and one of the best team builders I have ever known. As we continue to expand our business, I am thrilled to have Jonathan on board to help steer our Path to Growth.”

Jonathan says, “I have admired for many years the business that Richard and the team at leaf HOSPITALITY have built, and I am delighted to be joining at such an exciting time.”

Jonathan’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to the brands, customers and owners aligns perfectly with leaf HOSPITALITY’s next phase of growth. Jonathan will lead strategic initiatives to further strengthen the organisation’s platform and ensure that responsible business practices remain integral to the operation, all while driving sustainable growth for its partners.