George Cohen, managing director of the Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa has revealed the appointment of Tom Rutherford as his new general manager. 

Rutherford’s hospitality career started with a seven-year stint at the Cape Grace Hotel where he gained a strong background in both guest relations and food and beverage management.

From there he moved to Singita where he managed various lodges within the group.

Rutherford spent seven years with Singita with his last two being general manager of the Sabi Sand properties - Boulders, Ebony and Castleton.

He returns home to Johannesburg with his wide-ranging experience, which will be of strategic importance to the Saxon. 

“After seventeen years working in hospitality organizations away from Johannesburg it feels good to be back in my home town and even better knowing I’m joining The Saxon team.

“The team’s commitment over the years to ensuring the ultimate guest experience has seen the hotel be consistently rated one of the best hotels in the world.

“I look forward to contributing to the continued success of this wonderful team and iconic brand.” said Rutherford. 

He will be joining the dynamic Saxon team in what has been a period of great success and growth for the hotel and the brand.

Supported by the passionate current team and guided by Cohen, Rutherford will ensure that this period of growth continues and that the Saxon remains on the forefront of the hospitality industry in South Africa and beyond. 

Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa is recognised as the World’s Leading Boutique Hotel by the World Travel Awards, while also taking the title of World’s Leading Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant last year.

Cohen commented on the appointment: “Having decided to restructure our senior team as a part of the greater strategy of repositioning and realigning of the Saxon into even higher luxury; I am delighted to appoint Tom Rutherford as general manager, capitalising on his seven years’ experience at Singita Game Reserve with its renowned service standards.

“His appointment will assist in taking the Saxon’s offering to the next level, so ensuring that we can continue to strive to the benchmark set by the most exclusive international hospitality brands.”