The Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood is delighted to announce the strategic appointment of Ronald Little as General Manager, coinciding with the first anniversary of the hotel’s relaunch following a £10 million refurbishment.
Vice Chair of the Edinburgh Hoteliers Associations board, Ronald is a highly experienced hospitality leader, brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, strategic business growth, and guest experience innovation. With a proven track record in repositioning hotels within competitive markets, he is set to lead the next chapter of Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood’s evolution, reinforcing its position as a premier destination in the city’s hospitality scene.
The hotel, a long-standing fixture in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, underwent a significant transformation in 2024, integrating into Marriott’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands. Delivering Wonderful Hospitality. Always – Marriott’s refurbishment introduced enhanced guest experiences, modernised design-led interiors, and upgraded facilities, including the Spa and Leisure Club and the welcoming Greatroom, a sophisticated space for guests and locals to connect, work, and unwind.
No stranger to the Marriott brand, Ronald joins the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood following a successful tenure as General Manager of the Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh, where he led business growth, improved guest satisfaction and streamlined operational efficiencies. His career also includes General Manager roles at DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre, where he oversaw major refurbishments, increased revenue, and strengthened market positioning.
With a vision for growth and innovation, Ronald Little, commented on his new role:
“The opportunity to lead a newly refurbished Marriott property in the heart of Edinburgh was a major draw for me. This is an exciting chance to build on the incredible work of the team since the relaunch, helping shape the hotel’s identity, enhance its reputation, and create standout guest experiences.
“My focus will be on fostering a strong team culture and further elevating Marriott’s offerings to make this a first-choice destination for visitors and locals alike.”
Ronald has a strong background in strategic development and is committed to driving the hotel’s growth while embracing sustainability and local sourcing in its food and beverage offerings. He aims to build on the hotel’s strengths by forging authentic connections with local suppliers and crafting unique guest experiences that reflect Edinburgh’s vibrant culture.
Ronald added:
“One of the major attractions of this role is the opportunity to shape the hotel’s identity within Edinburgh’s hospitality scene. We’re more than just a hotel – with a spa and leisure club at the foot of Arthur’s Seat and within walking distance of the historic Royal Mile and some of the city’s most iconic attractions including Holyrood Palace, we offer an experience that blends relaxation, heritage, and contemporary luxury. My priorities include refining Marriott’s offerings, integrating more local partnerships, and ensuring every guest enjoys an exceptional experience.”
One year on, the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood continues to attract new and returning guests, with bookings exceeding expectations. The 160 en-suite bedrooms, state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces, and the city’s only M Club Lounge – an exclusive retreat for Marriott Bonvoy’s Platinum Elite, Titanium Elite, and Ambassador Elite members – set the hotel apart in Edinburgh’s competitive hospitality market. The Spa and Leisure Centre, featuring a 14m heated pool, infrared sauna, and a fully equipped gym, provides a restorative retreat for guests and members alike.
The Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood was acquired by Zetland Capital Partners under a management agreement with Hamilton Pyramid in 2021. As Ronald takes the helm, the hotel looks ahead to an exciting future, building on its success and further enhancing its reputation as a leader in the city’s hospitality landscape.
