Chef Patron and chairman of lympstone manor

Creator and visionary behind the build and creation of Lympstone manor and the holder of two Michelin stars for 18 consecutive years, he is now delighted to have been awarded a Michelin star for Lympstone Manor just six months after opening.

Read more about Michael’s journey and passion. 

operations director of lympstone manor hotel

Steve has worked closely with Michael for over 20 years. He joined Gidleigh Park in 1987 and began a close working relationship with Michael  when he started there in 1994. This led to the creation and running of Michael Caines restaurants, café bars and taverns, as well as other ventures. His longstanding working relationship with Michael, along with his knowledge of the hospitality industry at all levels, and his passion for wine makes Steve an integral and vital member of the Lympstone Manor family.

Find our more about Steve’s passion for wine. 

General Manager

Scott, originally from Devon, has made a career working in some of the top hospitality businesses in the UK, including Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Le Poussin, Gidleigh Park and The Atlantic in Jersey. Says Scott, “I am very excited to be reunited with Michael and to have this fantastic opportunity to help build Lympstone Manor. Our aim is to ensure that it soon becomes one of the UK’s finest luxury hotels.”

ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER

Anca comes with a wealth of hospitality experience having spent formative years working in America and Dubai. After working closely with Michael at the Bath Priory Hotel, she then went on and spent the last four years working for Sat Bains at his Restaurant with Rooms in Nottingham. ‘’ I am extremely happy to be part of this most extraordinary and unique project. I feel very fortunate to be welcomed back into such a highly professional family and I am looking forward to being part of the team that will shape Lympstone Manor into a world class destination.’’

SALES AND REVENUE MANAGER

Pippa studied Hospitality Management BSc (Hons) at Plymouth University. A four year programme involved a year’s work placement and Pippa approached Gidleigh Park to ask if they would welcome her to the fold and she relished the opportunity to learn from highly respected individuals in the industry.

Pippa continued to work at Gidleigh Park whilst studying and spent just under four years working across various positions and departments which defined her ambition, career aspirations and passion for the industry. Pippa joined the team at Lympstone in August pre-opening “Opportunities such to work at one of the most anticipated new hotels openings do not come around often and I am proud to be the team embarking on this fantastic journey”.

Personal Assistant to Michael Caines

After spending almost 5 years living and working in London in the Filming and PR industries, Chelsey’s home of Devon was calling and in August 2016 she returned to pursue a change of career and a more Devon style lifestyle.

Chelsey works close alongside Michael, Steve and the team at Lympstone Manor. She is also involved in the properties and partners within the Michael Caines Collection, and the Exeter Festival of Food and Drink. She assists with many of the projects, charity work and selected partners as well as managing Michael’s demanding busy schedule.

GUEST SERVICES MANAGER

As a young hospitality professional Emma has flourished at two of the leading hotels in the UK.

Also a local girl Emma finds a real passion for the hospitality industry and strives in creating a unique and memorable guest experience.

Starting her career at Gidleigh Park Emma had her first insight into five-star hospitality where she found her niche working Front of House on Reception making sure the guests have a fabulous stay whilst taking care of their every need.

From Gidleigh Park Emma moved to South West Wales to join the team at the highly acclaimed Grove of Narberth taking the position of Reception & Reservations Manager, here Emma further developed her skills looking after all front desk operations making sure all guests received a very warm welcome.

Michael, Scott and the Senior team were thrilled to welcome Emma back to Devon to be a part of the opening team at Lympstone Manor, firstly as Head Receptionist then developing into her current role as Guest Services Manager.

Emma is glad to be home and cannot wait to welcome old and new friends alike to ensure they experience the exceptional when they come to stay or dine with us.

HEAD HOUSEKEEPER

Michaela started her career in housekeeping in Gidleigh Park in 2012. She started as a Room Attendant and was promoted to Housekeeping Supervisor after a couple of years. She enjoyed working with a team of people that are dedicated to what they do which is why she followed many of her colleagues and joined Michael Caines in his new venture. In her spare time, Michaela enjoys walking and exploring the beautiful spots of Devon.

HEAD SOMMELIER

Before moving to England in early 2015, Marko ran his own restaurants in his home country, Estonia.
After spending two years in London restaurant, Le Gavroche, he joined Lympstone Manor team to help build institutional service and wine cellars to be proud of.
Marko’s sincere passion about great service and pairing wine with food reflects on our guest experience.

Read our wine blog to hear more about our exquisite collection. 

ESTATE MANAGER

Shortly after relocating to Devon, Ricky joined the team at Lympstone Manor as Assistant Head Gardener before recently progressing to the role of Maintenance Manager. With around 15 years’ experience in grounds and property maintenance he is excited by the new role and is committed to ensuring the hotel continues at its existing high standards. Outside of work Ricky enjoys the style and music of the ‘mod’ era; especially riding his 1964 Vespa scooter.

Vineyard and Grounds Manager

Returning to the area in 2017 to join Lympstone Manor, James has finally put down firm and long awaiting roots here in Devon where his heart belongs.

James studied viticulture at Plumpton College, East Sussex. Then later went on to work for the multi-award winning English Sparkling Wine producer Hattingley Valley, in Hampshire. With the management and growing of over 60 acres of vines for UK Wine Maker of the year Emma Rice and her team, James eagerly brings his profession, passion and tenacious enthusiasm to Lympstone’s grounds and its eagerly awaited vineyard.

“It is truly an honour and privilege to be a part of Michael’s vision and creation, Lympstone Manor is a magical place with inspiration around every corner”

Find out more about our growing vineyard. 

Marketing and Sales

After spending a number of years working within top performing  food and drink companies, Sophie joined the Lympstone Manor team to help develop the digital presence and support Pippa in her role as sales and revenue manager.

With a degree in Agri-Food Marketing and Business studies from Harper Adams University, Sophie is a big advocate of buying locally produced food and drink, making the South West the perfect place to put down roots.

“It is a brilliant opportunity to join the team here at Lympstone Manor, Michael has a clear vision for the hotel, restaurant and vineyard and its very exciting to help him achieve this “

Front of House Manager

Rachel has enjoyed a career working in some of the UK’s top hotels including a total of four Relais & Chateaux properties, most notable being Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, not to mention having worked abroad in Dubai.

‘I am excited for what the future holds at Lympstone Manor and am proud to be a part of the team. The reason I do what I do is so that each and every guest can enjoy an exceptional experience, be it once in a lifetime or something the guest does regularly, it is important to me that each guest leaves wanting to stay longer and lasting memories have been made’

Events Coordinator

Tom has returned to Devon, having worked with some of the most renowned hospitality companies in London such as The Ritz and Fortnum & Mason.

“When I heard that Lympstone Manor had a vision to become the new worldwide bench mark within hospitality, I was determined to be apart of the team.”