Dorchester Collection has promoted its chief executive, Christopher Cowdray, to company president as part of an executive team restructure.

Cowdray has been chief executive of Dorchester Collection for 15 years, overseeing the group’s portfolio of 10 properties which include The Dorchester, 45 Park Lane, Coworth Park and Hotel Plaza Athénée. 

A statement from the brand said his new role as company president would “ensure that the incisive vision, deeply embedded culture, robust financial performance and strategic growth of Dorchester Collection are maintained, while spearheading all development and renovation projects”.

Cowdray has more than 40 years of global experience in hotels, having managed and developed properties in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Australia, Europe and the USA. 

During his time in London, and prior to becoming chief executive of Dorchester Collection, he was general manager of The Dorchester and managing director of Claridge’s.

Cowdray was granted the Freedom of the City of London in honour of his contribution to the hotel industry. 

Dorchester Collection’s chief customer experience office, Helen Smith, and chief culture and operations executive, Eugenio Pirri, have been promoted to joint chief executives. 

Smith and Pirri have worked together for 12 years and are “aligned on the strategy, mission and vision of Dorchester Collection”.

Smith joined the company in 2005, holding roles including director of sales and marketing and vice president of sales and marketing before her current position. 

She has also held key management positions at Four Seasons, The Lanesborough, Sheraton and Skibo Castle. 

Pirri joined the Dorchester Collection in 2011 as vice president of people and organisational development. 

He was previously regional HR director at Fairmont Hotels and Resorts and has held several leadership positions with the hospitality sector. 

Cowdray said: “This decision ensures continuity of our legendary culture rooted deeply in community, and allows two of Dorchester Collection’s most senior, long-standing executives and leaders in their field to step up.

“The company will benefit from their distinct and ideal combined skillsets of strategic vision, guest and employee-centric focus, and analytical decision making."