Lucknam Park makes two senior appointments in sales and marketing


Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa has announced two appointments within senior leadership roles. Nicola Payne, as the new Head of Sales & Events and Francesca Mannone, the new Head of Marketing.

With over 12 years of experience in the travel and hospitality industry, Nicola Payne has taken the helm as Head of Sales & Events at Lucknam Park. Payne’s career began with a specialisation in long-haul travel experiences gained at Premier Holidays, before pivoting into first and business-class travel consultation with Flight Centre. Here, Payne became expertly equipped with the knowledge and skills to tailor-make bespoke travel experiences, something which will serve her well for her new role at Lucknam Park.

One of Payne’s career highlights was working as a Marketing Manager at Expedia Group, a role that she held for the past five years. This has provided her with the skills necessary to oversee Lucknam Park’s entire Sales & Events team, implement strategic planning and launch new offerings whilst maintaining the highest level of guest experience.

Commenting on her appointment, Nicola Payne enthused: “I am honoured to be joining the esteemed team at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa as Head of Sales and Events.

“My passion for travel and dedication to creating exceptional guest experiences perfectly align with the ethos of this extraordinary property.

“After 12 years of experience in the travel industry, I am excited to leverage my knowledge and collaborate with the talented Sales & Events team, to elevate sales strategies and exceed the expectations of our luxury guests.”

Meanwhile, Lucknam Park has also appointed Francesca Mannone as Head of Marketing. Mannone brings with her a wealth of experience in luxury hospitality having spent time working and living in Belgium, Germany, Italy, and the UK.

Mannone gained strong operational skills working for NH Hotel Group as Conference & Banqueting Manager, before transitioning to Sales & Event Manager at Kempinski Hotels where she oversaw activity in the UK, France, Italy Belgium, and the US.

Most recently, Mannone founded her own successful enterprise, Social Times London, a strategic digital marketing agency that helps brands to connect with valuable customers and brand advocates. With her finger always on the pulse and a creative entrepreneurial mindset, Mannone is perfectly positioned to head up Lucknam Park’s Marketing department.

Commenting on her appointment, Francesca Mannone said: “I am humbled and excited to start my new role at Lucknam Park as Head of Marketing. It is without doubt one of the best country house hotels in the UK at present and I am looking forward to working alongside the fantastic team. From the hotel itself to the spa, culinary offering, and unique equestrian centre, Lucknam Park is an endless source of inspiration and excitement.”

Speaking on the two new senior leadership appointments, Sakis Dinas, General Manager of Lucknam Park told us: “I am delighted to welcome Nicola and Francesca to the Lucknam Park family. I am sure their contributions will be a key component in strengthening the positioning of our hotel and further cementing Lucknam Park as an important player in the luxury hospitality industry.”