Dorchester Collection has announced the appointment of Richard Cooke as General Manager of Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles, California, effective January 1, 2027. Bringing more than 30 years of international luxury hospitality experience, Cooke will lead the iconic property, overseeing its operations while continuing its tradition of personalised service and exceptional guest experiences.
With a career spanning some of the world’s recognised luxury hotel brands, Cooke brings extensive expertise in hotel operations, strategic management, team leadership and guest service. His appointment marks a new chapter for Hotel Bel-Air as it continues to strengthen its position in Los Angeles’ luxury hospitality market.
Richard Cooke’s Experience in Luxury Hospitality
Cooke joins Hotel Bel-Air from Rocco Forte Hotels, where he served as Managing Director for the UK and Northern Europe. In this role, he led operations at Brown’s Hotel in London while overseeing the company’s properties across the United Kingdom, Belgium and Germany.
His experience managing hotels across multiple markets has given him a broad understanding of international luxury hospitality, operational performance and strategic leadership.
Before joining Rocco Forte Hotels, Cooke spent more than 15 years in senior leadership positions with Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts. During his tenure, he held General Manager and Area General Manager roles across Asia and Canada, gaining valuable experience in international hotel operations and team development.
A Career Built on International Hotel Leadership
Earlier in his career, Cooke developed a strong foundation in food and beverage management through positions with several prominent hospitality brands, including Four Seasons, Regent Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton and Rosewood.
These experiences helped him build an understanding of the operational demands of luxury hotels, from maintaining service standards to managing teams and delivering personalised guest experiences.
His professional background combines hands-on operational knowledge with senior executive experience, positioning him to oversee the diverse responsibilities associated with managing an established luxury hotel.
Professional Development and Hospitality Education
Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Cooke has continued to strengthen his leadership expertise through specialised hospitality education and executive development.
He completed the General Manager Programme at Singapore Management University and undertook executive education at the Cornell-Nanyang Institute of Hospitality in Singapore.
These programmes complemented his extensive industry experience and provided further opportunities to develop his understanding of hospitality leadership and hotel management.
Leading the Next Chapter at Hotel Bel-Air
As General Manager, Cooke will oversee Hotel Bel-Air’s day-to-day operations, focusing on service excellence, team leadership and the property’s overall performance.
His international experience across luxury hotels and diverse markets will support the property’s continued development while helping preserve the personalised service and distinctive character for which it is known.
With more than three decades in hospitality, Cooke brings experience across multiple hotel groups, operational functions and international destinations. His appointment reflects Dorchester Collection’s continued focus on experienced leadership and maintaining the standards associated with its luxury hotel portfolio.
About Hotel Bel-Air
Located in Los Angeles, California, Hotel Bel-Air is part of Dorchester Collection’s portfolio of luxury hotels. The property is known for its distinctive setting, understated elegance and personalised approach to hospitality.
The hotel offers guests a refined retreat within Los Angeles, combining an intimate atmosphere with the service and experiences associated with luxury travel.
As one of the collection’s established properties, Hotel Bel-Air maintains a distinctive identity while serving travellers seeking a high-end hospitality experience in the city.
About Dorchester Collection
Dorchester Collection is an international portfolio of luxury hotels known for their individual character, heritage and connection to their destinations.
Its properties include The Dorchester and 45 Park Lane in London, Coworth Park in Ascot, and Le Meurice and Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris.
Each hotel reflects its own location and personality while sharing the collection’s commitment to personalised service and distinctive guest experiences.
With Richard Cooke set to take over as General Manager on January 1, 2027, Hotel Bel-Air enters a new leadership chapter supported by his extensive international experience and background in luxury hotel management.
