A GLASGOW hotel’s general manager has shared his vision for the site.

Paul Bray of Grand Central Hotel spoke of expansion plans.

He said: “My vision for The Grand Central Hotel is to continue to grow the business by promoting the superb facilities such as the champagne bar and the grand ballroom.

“We have some great plans to enhance the champagne bar further as well as develop the restaurant offering. We are adding an extra 13 bedrooms to the hotel in the coming months and have plans to enhance the remaining bedrooms in the near future.”

Following a full refurbishment in 2010, The Grand Central Hotel has enjoyed a £500,000 expansion of its champagne central bar as well as refurbishment of the grand ballroom in recent months, which are key in its history, welcoming Hollywood greats such as Frank Sinatra, Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly.

Bray, who brings with him 25 years of experience within hospitality, originally trained as a chartered accountant but fell in love with the industry and quickly set his sights on becoming a general manager.

“I originally started by taking a job in a hotel whilst I was at school. I loved meeting new people and being part of a great team so when I was offered a full-time role in the sales and marketing department, I grabbed the opportunity with both hands. I’d always had aspirations to become a general manager and was able to map out my progression and make the most of opportunities that came my way,” said Bray.

Bray, who collected a number of top titles while at the helm of his former post at The Westerwood Hotel and Golf Resort, is excited to bring his wealth of experience and success to the hotel which he has admired for a long time. Most recently, he scooped the title of General Manager of the Year at the Prestige Hotel Awards which were announced last month.

Bray added: “I am delighted to be coming on board at The Grand Central Hotel and lead a team of such passionate and driven people that are at the very top of the hospitality business in Scotland.

“I love the history, character and personality of Grand Central. It is truly a landmark building for Glasgow and an iconic part of the history of the city. I hope to really showcase its status and support the outstanding team that delivers a modern service through classic values day in, day out.”

Paul continued: “I’m proud to be part of an exclusive group of custodians of The Grand Central Hotel.

“Principal has re-stored a Grand Dame of a hotel to its full glory in the last eight years and has continued to commit to enhancing the property for our guests and visitors to something truly special.

“I’m incredibly proud to have the opportunity to lead such a talented group of people and am very excited for what the future has to hold for everyone in the hotel.”

Visit www.phcompany.com/principal/glasgow-grand-central-hotel for more information or to book.