Our People

It’s our people who bring the magic to everything we do. Passionate, creative, and always striving for perfection, they set the standard for unforgettable experiences. Meet the senior leadership team behind it all.

Executive Director

Sandy Robson

With 30 years in hospitality, Sandy’s expertise spans all aspects of food and service. His leadership keeps Heritage Portfolio at the forefront of innovation, ensuring exceptional guest experiences. Passionate about mentoring and food development, he continues to drive the company’s culinary excellence.

“Good food makes people happy.”

Head of Design & Development

Caroline Eriyagama

Caroline’s 24 years in sales and event planning drive her role at Heritage Portfolio, where she ensures each event is thoughtfully designed. Her energy and dedication reflect Heritage Portfolio’s commitment to client experience.

“If you are not proud of it, then don’t do it!”.”

Operations Director

David Hay

With over 27 years in the hospitality industry, David leads regional operations at Heritage Portfolio, ensuring strategic alignment and excellence across multiple venues. His extensive leadership experience spans large-scale venues and regional growth strategies, underpinned by a passion for developing people and delivering exceptional service.

“Success is built on strong teams with a clear vision, and the courage to innovate.”

Innovation & Development Chef

Lizzie Arber

Lizzie is the creative mind behind many of our most exciting menus, from retail and events to our in-house bakery. With a passion for seasonal ingredients and fresh ideas, she brings her love of food to everything she creates - from casual dining concepts to and exhibition-inspired dishes.

"True creativity in food comes from evolving ideas into experiences people can taste."

Head of Central Production Unit

Gavin King

With over 28 years of hospitality experience, Gavin brings a wealth of operational knowledge and a hands-on approach to Heritage Portfolio. Leading our Central Production Unit, he oversees culinary development, kitchen production and logistics, ensuring exceptional food is delivered with care and consistency. Having progressed from junior roles to senior management, Gavin understands what it takes to bring ambitious events to life. From spectacular heritage venues to transforming blank canvases, he thrives on the creativity, variety and teamwork that make every event unique.

“Treat every plate like it's the only plate.”

Head Chef – Central Production Unit

Aaron Hammond

With 33 years of culinary experience, Aaron brings a wealth of knowledge, passion and dedication to his role as Head Chef at Heritage Portfolio's Central Production Unit. With a strong appreciation for quality ingredients and food provenance, he believes great cooking begins with respect for the produce and the people behind it. Aaron thrives on delivering exceptional food for events across our stunning venues. His practical, people-focused approach and commitment to high standards ensure every dish is prepared with care, whatever the occasion.

“Treat people how you expect to be treated.”

Head of Operations – Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Harry Donaghy

With 18 years of experience across luxury hospitality and destination venues, Harry brings a passion for people, innovation and exceptional guest experiences to Heritage Portfolio. Having developed his career in five-star hotels and at Cambo Estate, he combines premium hospitality expertise with creativity and commercial insight. As Head of Operations at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Harry oversees a diverse hospitality offering, from cafés to event catering. Passionate about empowering his teams, he focuses on developing talent, creating welcoming spaces and delivering experiences that leave a lasting impression.

“Invest in your people, empower them to succeed, and exceptional guest experiences will follow.”

Area Manager

Helen Fleming

With over 18 years of experience in events, Helen combines creative thinking with meticulous attention to detail to deliver memorable experiences. Overseeing our partnerships at Mansfield Traquair and Dundas Castle, she works closely with clients, venue partners and teams to bring exceptional events to life. With a scientific background and extensive event management expertise, Helen brings a thoughtful, organised and solutions-focused approach to her role. Passionate about developing people and embracing new ideas, she believes collaboration and creativity are at the heart of every successful event.

“It takes people to turn a dream into reality.”

General Manager – Private and Panel Events

Anna Pawlowska

With eight years of hospitality experience, Anna brings a hands-on approach and a passion for people to Heritage Portfolio. Having progressed from waiter to General Manager, she understands what it takes to deliver exceptional events. Overseeing prestigious occasions including the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Genesis Scottish Open, Anna thrives on developing her teams, building strong relationships and bringing ambitious events to life.

“It's not about having all the answers. It's about having the right people around you to find them.”

Lead Event Chef - London

Augustin Pintilie

With over 15 years of experience in fine dining and events, Augustin is Lead Event Chef for Heritage Portfolio in London. He oversees all kitchen operations across events, member dining, and private hires, combining culinary creativity with operational excellence to deliver exceptional guest experiences. Passionate about menu innovation, seasonal produce, and developing talented teams, Augustin thrives on creating memorable moments through food while maintaining the highest standards of quality and service.

"Excellence is in the details - every plate, every service, every guest experience matters."

Head of Events - London

James Hurworth

With over 30 years' experience in hospitality, James is Head of Events for Heritage Portfolio’s London venues, private clients and external events. He is the driving force behind seamless, innovative client events, thriving on leading a talented team, customer retention, delivering memorable moments, and continually pushing the boundaries of London’s luxury event scene.”

"Everything must be client focused. Then they will return."

Crafted with care

Now that you’ve met the team, let them welcome you in person.

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