10 made redundant at Hamilton Princess (Update)

The Fairmont Hamilton Princess has made redundant 10 staff members.

Rumours of the layoffs started circulating on Facebook on Friday last week.

Len Czarnecki, general manager, The Fairmont Hamilton Princess confirmed today that it was true.

He said in a release: “Due to changes in our business needs, we are restructuring our operations. As part of this decision, I can confirm that the hotel has made redundant 10 positions. Letting colleagues go is tremendously difficult at any time and I would like to thank these colleagues for their service to the hotel.”

Earlier today, the hotel announced Jeanette Matthew as the hotel’s new director of human resources, which was effective on January 6, 2014.

Ms Matthew’s role is to help “further develop and maintain a positive and supportive work environment at The Fairmont Hamilton Princess. Ms. Matthew will play an integral role in the hotel’s strategic direction as it begins to reposition itself as a result of the multi-million dollar redevelopment that is currently in progress.”

The hotel, which is owned by the Green family, is currently undergoing $70 million in renovations.

In July last year, The House of Assembly approved the Fairmont Hamilton to receive a $14.2 million tax break on the $70 million in renovations.

Meanwhile, the hotel also announced that Mr Czarnecki is being transferred to another Fairmont hotel and his last day The Fairmont Hamilton Princess will be February 7.

A spokesperson said: “Over the past three years, Len has provided strong leadership to The Fairmont Hamilton Princess managing the change of ownership at the hotel and subsequently working with the owners on the $70 million redevelopment of the property.

“From hotel openings to renovations and repositioning, Len brings a valuable skill set to FRHI and will be staying with the company in his next role. We thank Len for his leadership and wish him much success in thenext chapter in his career.

“A global search is underway for a new general manager. In the interim, George Terpilowski, managing director of Fairmont Bermuda willassume responsibility for the operation of the hotel.”

Mr Czarnecki said: “Over the past three years I have enjoyed working with The Fairmont Hamilton Princess and its team of dedicated colleagues.  My family and I have enjoyed living in Bermuda, and although I am excited about my new position with Fairmont, as always, this type of move is bittersweet.”