Mayfair hotel The Twenty Two has announced the appointment of Michelle Walder as its new Managing Director, beginning from 3 July 2023. With an extensive background in the hospitality industry and a passion for design and architecture, Walder will spearhead the strategic direction of The Twenty Two, focusing on enhancing the guest experience, fostering partnerships and driving operational excellence.

The hotel’s new Managing Director will also be overseeing the brand’s upcoming New York property, slated to open in 2024. Operated by the same group, the hotel will comprise 77 rooms, a restaurant and a private members’ club in the heart of New York.

Walder’s experience has ranged from working at Andre Balazs Properties, contributing to the success of properties such as The Mercer, Sunset Beach and The Standard Hotels, to working on Schrager’s Edition Hotels in Miami and New York. Joining Sydell Group in 2011, Walder played a pivotal role in the pre-opening and development of Nomad New York, and later took part in task force and pre-opening assignments at several Sydell properties, including The Ned and NoMad in London.

“I have always been drawn to inspirational leaders and companies who are catalysts for change and not afraid of challenging the norm,” says Walder. “The team at The Twenty Two have set the tone for something really special in Mayfair, and I am excited to be a part of the next chapter.”