Bee Emmott is to take over as chief executive of Artfarm hospitality group starting 1 January.
Emmott will replace Ewan Venters, who has led the company until now, and will work closely with Emmott through the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition before his departure.
Bee Emmott joined Artfarm in 2018 as chief of staff and later transitioned into the role of creative director, working with founders Iwan and Manuela Wirth to oversee the development of the group’s expanding operations. These include high-profile properties like London’s Groucho Club and the Fife Arms in Braemar.
Emmott is a fine art and art history graduate from Edinburgh University and her career has included project management for the British Council and eight years working with designer Thomas Heatherwick.
Bee Emmott's appointment as chief executive of Artfarm is set to coincide with the group's plans for international expansion and the opening of the Groucho's first private members' club outside London in Yorkshire in 2026.
The Wirths, who are the Swiss art dealers behind Hauser & Wirth, said: “Bee has been an integral member of our executive team for many years and has a deep-rooted understanding of both the creative and operational aspects of our business.
“Working closely with our artists, architects and designers alongside our hotel, restaurant and retail teams, Bee’s experience is invaluable as we enter the next phase of Artfarm’s development, with further openings planned in the UK, Europe and North America.”
Artfarm chairman Lord Mervyn Davies said: “Having worked with Bee for many years, she was the obvious choice to be Artfarm’s next chief executive. Her unique skill at being able to interpret a creative vision and deliver a successful hospitality operation has contributed to Artfarm’s success, and I look forward seeing how she further shapes the organisation over the coming years.”
Artfarm’s portfolio also includes the Mount St Restaurant in London’s Mayfair, a notable dining destination, and the recently launched Da Costa in Bruton.