Derry’s Ciaran O’Neill takes the reins at The Bedford Hotel

RFM Hotels has appointed veteran hotelier Ciaran O’Neill as Managing Director of The Bedford Hotel ahead of its May launch.

Currently the Managing Director of the prestigious Bishop’s Gate Hotel in Derry, O’Neill is a specialist in blending contemporary service with historic settings, ensuring a highly personalised experience at the new Belfast site. Ciaran brings a wealth of expertise in luxury hospitality and a proven record of blending heritage preservation with contemporary service.

Ciaran will oversee both The Bedford Hotel and Bishop’s Gate Hotel, working closely with their respective General Managers to maintain each property’s distinctive character while delivering operational excellence.

Speaking of his appointment, Ciaran O’Neill said: “I am delighted to be taking on this role to join The Bedford Hotel at this pivotal stage as we prepare to open for bookings in May.

"Bringing The Bedford Hotel to life gives us great confidence in replicating Bishop’s Gate’s excellence in a new, iconic setting. We are creating a hotel that blends heritage with first-class service. This marks the beginning of an exciting journey - one that will see tradition meet modern elegance and a new chapter for Northern Ireland’s hospitality industry.” 

The Hotels’ philosophy is rooted in the belief that independent, design-led properties deliver more personalised and memorable experiences. This ethos is exemplified by Bishop’s Gate’s continued success, including recognition in TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best Awards and long-standing membership in Ireland’s Blue Book. 

Ciaran continues: “People make the difference. The success of Bishop’s Gate has always been driven by our incredible team, and that same focus will guide The Bedford Hotel. With experienced General Managers Mike Gatt and JP McCafferty leading operations in both hotels, we have a leadership team united in its passion for excellence. I look forward to the continued success of Bishop’s Gate and to helping create something truly special with The Bedford Hotel.”

Alison Rankin Frost, Chair of RFM Hotels said: “We are delighted to have Ciaran on board as we prepare for this landmark opening. Ciaran brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished record of achievements. His expertise is set to contribute significantly to our pursuit of excellence, ensuring that our standards of service are of the highest calibre. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on the quality and professionalism our guests deserve.”

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Welcoming the appointment, Laura McCorry, CEO of Tourism NI said: “Ciaran O’Neill has been a cornerstone of the Northern Ireland hospitality industry for many years, notably through his award-winning work at Bishop’s Gate and his leadership on the Board of Tourism NI. His appointment to The Bedford Hotel comes at an exciting time for our capital city.

"Belfast continues to be recognised as a top city to visit, recognised for its vibrant culture and world-class hospitality. We are confident that under Ciaran's guidance, The Bedford will further strengthen our global appeal and provide visitors with the exceptional quality they expect from a premier destination.”

Following its 18-month redevelopment, The Bedford Hotel will feature 82 luxury bedrooms, a destination restaurant and café bar, and private dining and event spaces, all within the historic 1904 Scottish Mutual Building. Located behind Belfast City Hall, the property forms part of the city’s wider urban revitalisation, enriching Belfast’s appeal for local and international visitors.