Peter Salussolia is a seasoned entrepreneur and industry leader, serving as the Chairman and Group Managing Director of the Foundation Group of Companies Limited, a business he founded in 1973.
Prior to establishing his own company, Peter made significant contributions to the leisure industry as the Managing Director of The Rambutan Group, where he played a key role in developing hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs across the UK.
With a rich history in the sector, he is a founding member of the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) and held the Chairmanship for five years.
Peter’s dedication to the industry earned him an OBE from Her Majesty the Queen in the Jubilee Honours of 2012, a testament to his outstanding service and leadership in the field. Today, he continues to shape the landscape of the hospitality industry, serving on the UK Hospitality Council.
Alexander Salussolia is the accomplished Managing Director of Glendola Leisure Group and Hotel Management International, the holding company for the Carlton Hotel Collection.
With a hospitality career spanning over four decades, Alexander set up Rainforest Cafe in the UK and created many retail concepts, including Waxy O’Connor’s, Shilling Brewing Co, Alston Bar & Beef, and Gordon Street Coffee.
Joining Glendola in 1992 as an Area Manager, he swiftly ascended to the role of Managing Director within eight years.
A stalwart advocate for the hospitality sector, Alexander served as the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) from 2004 to 2009, contributing significantly to the industry’s growth. His commitment to unity led to the formation of UK Hospitality by merging the ALMR and BHA, where he is one of the Company Directors and Chairs the Finance Committee.
With a rich background in the leisure industry, including key roles at Hilton Hotels Group, Alex’s leadership is informed by his education at the Harvard Business School, Westminster Hotel School, and Cornell University in the USA.
Robert van Heeswijk brings over two decades of expertise in hospitality and leisure to his role as Managing Director of the Carlton Hotel Collection.
A graduate of Breda University of Applied Sciences (BUAS), where he specialized in leisure and tourism with a focus on concept development, Robert began his career at the renowned Efteling theme park. During his 12-year tenure, he contributed to the brand’s award-winning innovations.
In 2013, Robert transitioned to hotel management as General Manager of the Carlton De Brug Hotel, leading its transformation into HUP, the Netherlands’ sportiest hotel. By 2020, he took on the role of Project & Development Manager, driving the evolution of hospitality concepts within the group. Appointed Managing Director in 2024, Robert now oversees the strategic growth and innovation of the Carlton Hotel Collection.
Graeme Ramsay, FCA, serves as the esteemed Group Finance Director and Company Secretary, overseeing financial matters for the Foundation Group across the UK and international territories.
With a career spanning over two decades, Graeme’s journey began at Price Waterhouse in 1989, where he later qualified in 1993. His global perspective was cultivated during postings in Price Waterhouse’s London, Budapest, Vietnam, and Hong Kong offices.
In 1999, Graeme brought his wealth of international financial expertise to the Foundation Group, becoming an integral part of its success. His commitment to excellence and strategic financial acumen continues to drive the Group’s success story.
Graeme Ramsay’s professional trajectory reflects a dedication to navigating the intricate landscape of finance. His extensive experience, starting in London and expanding to diverse international markets, has equipped him with a unique skill set that is invaluable to the Foundation Group.
As Group Finance Director and Company Secretary, Graeme’s leadership ensures the financial health and regulatory compliance of the entire group, solidifying his reputation as a key player in shaping the organization’s financial future.
Christina Salussolia, an integral part of the company since its inception in 1973, has played a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory. As the trusted Personal Assistant to the Chairman and Managing Director, Peter Salussolia, she has been intricately involved in every facet of the company’s growth and development.
Her unwavering dedication and keen organizational skills have been instrumental in maintaining a seamless flow of operations. Prior to her tenure with the company, Tina garnered valuable experience in Outside Broadcasting for BBC Television News, showcasing her versatile skill set and adaptability in the dynamic media landscape.
Tina’s longstanding commitment to the company reflects her passion for excellence and her ability to navigate challenges with grace. Her wealth of experience, spanning decades, is a testament to her resilience and enduring contribution to the organization’s success. As a key figure in the company’s journey, Tina Salussolia continues to embody the values of dedication, innovation, and professionalism that define the organisation’s ethos.
Luisa Salussolia is a dynamic professional with a multifaceted career in marketing, events, and hospitality.
Her journey began at Royal Holloway University, where she earned a degree in French and Italian. Subsequently, she entered the marketing arena at WDMP, later transitioning into hospitality. With diverse roles, including Hotel Manager in Courchevel and Head of Operations organizing significant events for the Royal Navy and British Army, Luisa’s expertise spans the industry.
Having joined Glendola Leisure in 2008, she initially thrived in Marketing and Events before becoming an Operations Manager. Currently, Luisa plays a pivotal role in the Hotel division of the company.
As a certified Wine Educator with a WSET Diploma in Wines, she founded Unicorn & The Vine in 2018, offering WSET wine qualifications and consultation tasting events. Additionally, Luisa contributes as a committee member for the Institute for Family Businesses and holds an international representative position in the Leadership Team for The Family Business Network. Her rich background showcases a passion for excellence in both the hospitality and wine education realms.
Before starting her career, Francesca studied at Loughborough University, earning a First in Industrial Design and Technology.
Voted the UK’s top female influencer in 2019 by Global Woman, Francesca Boorman is a renowned entrepreneur and a prominent advocate for social enterprise. As a key spokesperson, she represents diverse interests in both Government and the media.
Francesca’s accomplishments extend beyond her influential roles; she is an international best-selling author, a TEDx Speaker, and a regular contributor on BBC Radio, where she shares insights on business and news issues. Notably, Francesca is recognized for her commitment to building enterprises that drive positive change and empower women.
In addition to her Non-Executive Director role in the family business, she serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of Goal17, the UK’s premier sports-led mentoring program. Goal17 focuses on delivering corporate mentor training to homeless young people, solidifying Francesca’s reputation as a trailblazer in impactful initiatives.
Nick Salussolia, a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, currently serves as the Group Buyer at Glendola Leisure, where he collaborates closely with unit managers and the Operations Managers to ensure operational excellence.
Nick’s journey in the hospitality sector began after completing his degree in International Hotel Management at Oxford Brookes University. Eager to broaden his horizons, he ventured across the Atlantic to gain valuable experience, working for Hilton in America and participating in the International Associates Management Development Program at The Breakers, Palm Beach.
Nick’s international exposure continued when he operated a hotel in the French Alps for a ski season in 2007.
In 2009, he brought his diverse skill set and passion for the industry back to Glendola Leisure, contributing significantly to its success firstly as a General Manager, then Operations Manager and more recently in purchasing. Nick continues to build solid and progressive relationships with suppliers who align to the company’s core values.