Steeped in heritage and set within the rolling countryside of Somerset, Montigo Resorts Somerset at Charlton House is a Grade II listed estate with a story as rich as its design.
At the helm is Imran Mannan, a creative, strategic leader whose background in branding, guest experience, and wellness-led hospitality is helping guide the next chapter for this storied property.
From his early aspirations to become a pilot, to working in wildlife tourism and hospitality branding, Imran’s path into hotel management has been anything but conventional. What began as a career in marketing evolved into a deep-rooted passion for delivering meaningful guest experiences. With over 15 years in hospitality and an MBA to his name, Imran brings both operational acumen and emotional intelligence to his leadership approach—honouring the hotel’s past while preparing it for a rejuvenated future under the Montigo Resorts brand.
We caught up with Imran to discuss his career journey, what balance really means in modern hotel management, and his vision for turning Charlton House into the UK’s go-to wellness retreat.
What inspired you to pursue a career in hotel management?
My childhood was full of sports and outdoor play, which gave me an early appreciation for teamwork, spontaneity, and balance—values that continue to shape how I lead.
Hospitality allows me to combine those with problem-solving, creativity, and guest connection. No two days are the same, and that constant energy keeps me motivated. I started from the ground up, and that experience taught me to value every role and understand how service truly comes together.
How do you balance emerging trends and evolving guests’ preferences?
It starts with listening. Guest reviews and direct feedback are gold—they show us not just what guests enjoyed, but whythey enjoyed it. That insight allows us to fine-tune every touchpoint.
At the same time, I keep a close eye on industry innovation—especially in guest engagement, wellness, and F&B. But we never follow trends blindly. Every idea is filtered through the lens of brand alignment and guest value.
Charlton House is a historic estate with stories built into its walls. Balancing that heritage with forward-thinking service is a creative challenge I truly enjoy.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
Early in my career, I equated long hours with success. But over time, I realised that balance isn’t a luxury—it’s a strength.
Clarity, energy, and presence come from prioritising well-being. That shift in mindset made me a better leader and a more present person across every part of life.
What defines your management style?
My style is grounded in strategic clarity and purpose. I believe people perform at their best when they know where we’re going—and why it matters.
I empower my team to own their roles, while giving them the support and resources to succeed. We work smart, we work together, and we keep the bigger picture in mind at all times.
What are your strategic goals and vision for the hotel, and how does this fit with the portfolio the property sits in?
My vision is to establish Montigo Resorts Somerset at Charlton House as the UK’s leading wellness-focused country retreat—where guests don’t just relax, but reconnect and restore.
Since joining the Montigo Resorts family in 2023, we’ve made significant investments in the estate, prioritising local sourcing and community connection. Our goal is to honour the property’s design legacy while elevating its spa and wellness credentials for a new generation of mindful travellers.
As a brand rooted in Indonesian hospitality and wellness, Montigo brings global inspiration to local experiences. My role is to integrate those influences with the soul of Charlton House—offering something truly unique and authentic to the UK market.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves. Spend time in every department—housekeeping, F&B, maintenance, front desk. Each role builds understanding and empathy, which are vital for effective leadership.
The best managers are those who’ve truly walked the walk. It creates trust, fosters stronger teams, and gives you insights no classroom can teach. Stay curious, stay grounded, and always put people first.