New leadership for luxury Cornwall holiday specialists

A leading Cornwall holiday lettings company announces a new MD and revamped leadership team. 

Cornish Gems, a local, B-Corp accredited and proudly independent agency with over 17 years at the forefront of luxury letting, has appointed a new managing director alongside unveiling a new structure devised to enhance the guest experience. 

Michelle Baillie, who, following two years as Cornish Gems’ Commercial Director, takes on the role of Managing Director. Baillie, who has over 20 years’ experience in leadership roles within the holiday industry, brings both the energy and expertise required to navigate the market and grow the business alongside its commitments to spearhead positive change in the industry. 

She said: “I’m delighted to have started 2024 on a high, by moving into the role of Cornish Gems’ Managing Director. It’s a very exciting time for the business, which in the last year has undergone everything from a management buyout and winning numerous awards, to becoming one of only 11 travel companies in the UK to achieve B-Corp status. 

“We’re delighted to be retaining our 100-strong team, and providing exciting career and growth opportunities after what’s been a challenging year for the South West hospitality industry. I’m very much looking forward to working with the team to further accelerate the business’ growth, as it becomes a true force for good in the UK travel industry.“

The new structure includes the creation of two new departments which reflect the business’ commitment to delivering unparalleled levels of service to both its holiday home owners and guests. 

A new Guest Experience department, led by former Head of Sales and Marketing and now Director of Guest Experience & Brand, Philippa Snell, oversees the whole customer journey and ensures every guest experiences a holiday like no other. 

The Owner Experience department, led by Sarah Hemsley who steps into the role of Director of Owner Experience, will oversee the acquisition and onboarding of new properties on Gems’ exclusive portfolio, as well as the property management and ongoing owner relations, building on the excellent owner experience Cornish Gems is already known for. 

Working alongside Baillie, Snell and Hemsley is newly promoted Tara Donovan-Soltys, now Director of Interior Design and Jane Simpole, now Director of Business Services & ICT.  

Cornish Gems is led by husband and wife team Nadia and Tom Macer-Wright who are committed to using their business as a force for good, to drive a positive impact for the planet, while nurturing the wellbeing of the team and wider Cornish communities. 

Commenting on the restructure, Nadia Macer-Wright says, “We are excited to announce this restructure, which comes at a pivotal time for Cornish Gems.  We have a passionate, committed and extremely experienced team and this restructure not only recognises our dedication to continuously improving our service but our dedication to our people and partners too.”

For more information on Cornish Gems, visit www.cornishgems.com