New General Manager Appointed To Lead Fairwood Lakes Through Its Next Phase Of Growth
Premium leisure retreat operator Elysium Retreats has appointed Laney Thompson as General Manager of its flagship Fairwood Lakes destination in Wiltshire.
The appointment strengthens the leadership team as Fairwood Lakes builds on the September launch of The Glades, a collection of 13 lodges designed for couples and families, and prepares to open two newly refurbished one-bedroom lakeside lodges, the Private Hideaways, in October.
With extensive leadership experience across luxury hospitality, resort operations, property and guest experience, Laney’s arrival reflects Elysium Retreats’ continued investment in its people and operational infrastructure as it expands its portfolio of premium, nature-based destinations across the UK.
Having held senior leadership roles at Charteroak and Retallack Resort & Spa, and most recently as Resort Director of Whalesborough Spa Resort in Cornwall, Laney’s career has seen her lead complex resort operations and new hospitality openings, deliver significant improvements in operational and health and safety standards, and build high-performing teams focused on exceptional guest experiences.
At Fairwood Lakes, Laney will oversee the day-to-day running of the retreat. She will lead the on-site team, maintain consistently high standards and help ensure its continued growth remains true to the character and welcoming atmosphere guests value.
One of her immediate priorities will be supporting the team ahead of the Private Hideaways opening in October and ensuring they become a seamless part of the wider Fairwood Lakes guest experience.
Commenting on her appointment, Laney Thompson said: “Fairwood Lakes already has a strong identity and an incredibly special setting, so my role is about building on those foundations as the retreat grows.
“Following the September launch of The Glades, my immediate priority is to support the team as we prepare to open the newly refurbished Private Hideaways in October. For me, exceptional hospitality is about getting the details right, listening to our guests and giving the team the support they need to provide a genuinely personal experience.
“What immediately stood out to me was Elysium Retreats’ commitment to creating thoughtful, high-quality stays that allow guests to switch off and reconnect with nature. I’m looking forward to helping Fairwood Lakes develop while retaining the warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes it so special.”
Matt Pressman, Operations Director at Elysium Retreats, added: “Laney brings strong operational experience alongside a genuine understanding of thoughtful and personal hospitality. As Fairwood Lakes grows, it is essential that we retain the character, warmth and attention to detail that our guests value.
“Laney’s leadership and guest-focused approach made her a natural fit for the role. She will play an important part in supporting our team as we build on the launch of The Glades, open the Private Hideaways and shape the next stage of Fairwood Lakes’ development.”
Located just 20 minutes from Bath, Fairwood Lakes is Elysium Retreats’ flagship destination, offering a collection of premium waterside, woodland and floating lodges set among peaceful lakes and woodland.
Under the ownership of Sight Acre Group, Elysium Retreats recently announced plans to develop up to 12 new locations nationwide over the next two years. The recent and forthcoming openings at Fairwood Lakes form part of this next stage of growth, while preserving the privacy, tranquillity and connection to nature for which the retreat is known.
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