Matthew Biden has been promoted as CEO of The Royal Portfolio, where he has served as the managing director of the business for the past 10 years. Liz Biden, who founded the company in 1999, will now become co-chairman with her husband, Phil Biden. She will focus on enhancing the guest experience at all the properties within The Royal Portfolio.
In addition, Simon Mandy, previously director of sales and marketing, will take on the role of managing director. Phil said the decision was made after understanding that Matthew and Simon’s partnership was vital for the continued growth of The Royal Portfolio. The move is also expected to inject the fresh perspectives of Matthew and Simon in their new roles. Simon first started with the company as marketing and operations manager before moving onto his director role in 2019. He has been involved in all aspects of the business, including periods in operational management at Birkenhead House and Royal Malewane.
As CEO, Matthew—the son of Liz and Phil—will be free to conceive and develop long-term strategic plans, while Simon will be responsible for maintaining “an experienced and steady hand on the tiller of day-to-day operations.” Liz said Simon, in his 12 years with The Royal Portfolio, played an integral role in promoting the brand and growing the business globally. She added that he had been instrumental in “forging strong relationships with travel professionals around the world.”
Liz and Phil said they were confident that under the stewardship of Matthew and Simon, the company would “continue to go from strength to strength by ensuring guests enjoy the ultimate in luxury South African stays and experiences.”
The Royal Portfolio is a collection of hotels and private residences in South Africa owned and run by the Biden family. It includes Royal Malewane in the Greater Kruger National Park, Birkenhead House in Hermanus, La Residence in Franschhoek, The Silo Hotel in Cape Town and a collection of private residences.
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