Meet Tom – General Manager of The Comet Hotel, Hatfield
At The Comet Hotel, it’s not just our Art Deco-inspired design or rich aviation history that makes us special—it’s our people. And at the heart of the team is Tom, our passionate and experienced General Manager, who has been leading The Comet for the past three years. We sat down with Tom to hear more about his journey in hospitality, what he loves about the hotel, and why he believes The Comet is such a unique place to work—and to stay.
From Football Coaching to Hospitality Leadership
Tom didn’t originally set out to build a career in hotels.
“I actually fell into hospitality by accident,” he explains. “I originally wanted to be a football coach, but once I started working in hospitality, I really enjoyed it. From the beginning, I knew I wanted to work my way up and eventually reach the top.” That ambition and drive quickly propelled Tom through the ranks. “I started at the bottom and worked in every department. By the age of 22, I became part-owner and General Manager of a sports and country club in Bromsgrove. After that, I returned to Flitwick Manor as Deputy General Manager and took on my first full General Manager role at 29.” Tom has since led several properties, including Flitwick Manor, Hallmark Cambridge, Barns Hotel, and Letchworth Hall, before bringing his leadership and vision to The Comet Hotel in Hatfield.
What Makes The Comet Hotel Unique?
For Tom, it’s a mix of the people, the history, and the opportunity.
“The team, the building, and the project of growing The Comet is what excites me most,” he says. “There’s so much potential here, and being part of that journey is really special.” When asked if he has a favourite part of the hotel, Tom finds it hard to choose—but he’s clearly inspired by the hotel’s heritage. “I love the history around the hotel. For example, our De Havilland meeting room is still registered as a watch tower —and legally, you can’t sleep in there!”
A Culture of Growth and Passion
Tom is particularly proud of the team culture he’s helped to build.
“We’re a friendly, passionate team—and a young, growing one too,” he says. “We really focus on development and always look to promote from within first. It’s important that people feel supported and see a future here.”
That people-first approach extends to guests as well.
“We’re always thinking about the little touches that make a difference,” Tom shares. “Whether it’s phone chargers in every room, fresh water daily, or luxury White Company products in the bathrooms—we’re always asking, ‘how can we get ahead?'”
Behind the Scenes at a Boutique Hotel
Running a hotel like The Comet is no small feat, especially with a tight-knit team.
“With a smaller team, everyone wears multiple hats,” Tom explains. “It’s a real team effort every day—and I think that’s something guests don’t always see, but definitely feel in the level of care they receive.”
Tom’s Favourite Dish at Element Bar & Kitchen?
Without hesitation, Tom answers:
“The crumble. We have the best crumble in town.”
If you haven’t had the chance to visit The Comet Hotel or dine at Element Bar & Kitchen, now’s the perfect time. From historic charm and modern comforts to a team that genuinely cares, it’s an experience shaped by passion—and people like Tom.