Govert Deketh, General Manager of London Marriott Hotel County Hall Becomes Chair of South Bank Business Improvement District
South Bank Business Improvement District (BID) has appointed Govert Deketh as its new Chair. Govert is the General Manager of London Marriott Hotel County Hall, and brings to the role over two decades of management and operational experience from the world’s biggest hotel company.
Govert replaces Anne Golden, former General Manager of Mondrian London, who stepped down when she assumed her new role of Regional Vice President of Operations & Development at Morgans Hotel Group. David Pelly, Resource Director at Prospect, has been Acting Chair in the interim period.
Govert Deketh joined the 206-bedroom, five-star hotel after it relaunched in November 2016 following a year-long renovation programme that saw the property given a modern and contemporary new feel. He joined the South Bank BID’s Board in January 2017.
Govert said:
“South Bank is a global centre for culture and the arts – it’s what the area is famous for. But, it’s also an incredibly diverse business neighbourhood that is brimming with opportunity, home to a number of world-leading companies across a range of sectors – especially creative and digital – and fantastic hotels, restaurants and bars – all hugely important for the visitor economy This is an exciting time to lead South Bank BID, and I am looking forward to representing our members’ interests, ensuring that South Bank’s success continues, and that the area goes from strength to strength.”
Nic Durston, Chief Executive of South Bank BID said:
“Despite the area’s success, South Bank businesses continue to face a number of challenges – rising business rates, post Brexit uncertainty, competition, and demands and stresses on the area’s infrastructure. Govert’s appointment is a really positive step forward, as South Bank BID continues to deliver a range of services to its members. From security, cleaning, and greening, to marketing and promoting, South Bank BID works seven days a week, and throughout the year, to make South Bank a welcoming and desirable place to work, visit, and live.
Govert is well placed to lead the BID Board into the future. We are looking forward to working with him, and other members of the Board in tackling those issues that matter most to South Bank’s business community.