Bringing nearly two decades of experience in hospitality, Kavanagh will oversee all operations at the iconic hotel and work to enhance The Shelbourne’s legacy as an Irish landmark.
Originally from Dublin, JP Kavanagh has a Bachelor Degree in Management Science from Trinity College Dublin and a Higher Diploma in Hotel Management from Dublin College of Catering. Kavanagh most recently served as General Manager of The Belmond Grand Hibernian in Dublin where he oversaw the launch of Ireland’s first luxury rail experience.
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Kavanagh began his hospitality career in 1993 with a hotel position at The Connaught Hotel in London, followed by positions at The Hyde Park Hotel in Knightsbridge, London (now the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park) and The Clarence Hotel in Dublin.ÊIn Dublin, Kavanagh later became Rooms Division Manager at the Westin Dublin in 2000 and played a key part in the pre-opening and launch of the hotel, which was Starwood’s first property in Ireland. In 2003, he moved to Turnberry, the iconic golf resort located in South Ayrshire, Scotland, as Operations Manager. In 2006, he was appointed General Manager of The Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa in Edinburgh, where he oversaw a multi-million-pound refurbishment and repositioning project for the property.Ê
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Subsequently, Kavanagh was based in Dubai as General Manager of the 481-room Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel, managing the rebranding from Pullman and repositioning of the hotel.ÊHe later served as acting General Manager at the Kensington Hotel London, and then the Westbury Dublin, both Doyle Collection hotels.Ê
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JP Kavanagh will start his new responsibilities as General Manager of The Shelbourne on March 20, 2018. As the son of a hotelier, Kavanagh has a lifelong passion for hospitality and service that has been passed through the generations. Married with three children, Kavanagh is also a keen golfer and enjoys spending time on the golf course with his sons.
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“I am delighted to be joining the team at Dublin’s favourite five-star hotel, The Shelbourne,” said JP Kavanagh, commenting on his appointment. “Having the opportunity to lead the team at The Shelbourne – this extraordinary, iconic hotel and national treasure – is something I am very excited about.”
