Marie-Paule Nowlis has been appointed general manager of Sofitel London St James.

Nowlis, who brings with her 30 years’ experience with the Sofitel brand, and a career shaped by international roles, joins at the start of a new chapter for the hotel and will be integral to its transformation.

Nowlis said: “This year, Sofitel London St James will proudly unveil an extensive transformation and mark a new era for this prestigious hotel, a flagship for Sofitel and a cornerstone of London’s luxury hotel scene.”

With a total investment of £16.5 million the transformation will ensure Sofitel London St James remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the city.

The redesign will extend to the hotel’s rooms, restaurant, lounge and bar, reaffirming Sofitel London St James as the home of luxury French elegance in London.

Nowlis added: “This summer we launch our new restaurant, Wild Honey St James, an exciting collaboration with renowned chef Anthony Demetre, a reimagination of his iconic restaurant concept opening on the former site of The Balcon restaurant.

“The restaurant is just the start of our journey.

“Our 183 guestrooms and suites are being designed by world-renowned interior designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon, and will be unveiled later this year.”

She added: “I’m thrilled to join the dynamic team at Sofitel London St James as we prepare to showcase the transformation of the hotel.

“My new colleagues are outstanding hoteliers whose knowledge of our guests and their needs has been key to deciding how each of the spaces around should evolve.

“Our vision will ensure this iconic Sofitel property continues to raise the bar in the vibrant London hotel market and we look forward to continuing to provide outstanding service tailored to the evolving needs of today’s luxury traveller.”

Marie-Paule Nowlis was most recently hotel manager of Sofitel New York, responsible for operational and strategic execution of the 400-room branded flagship property.

She held the position as of February 2016, during which time she was also acting general manager for 20 months.

Nicolas Pesty, Sofitel London St James’ outgoing general manager will be joining another iconic property, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, Cartagena, Colombia, after five years leading the team in London.