Hotel Chocolat appoints new UK general manager
Hotel Chocolat has appointed Carrie Martin as its new UK general manager.
Martin has spent the last four years serving as general manager for Europe, Middle East and Australia at Kind as part of a 25 year career at Mars, the parent company of Hotel Chocolat.
Subscribe to TRBIn a post on LinkedIn, she said: “As a long-time admirer of Hotel Chocolat, it’s a privilege to now lead a brand in the UK that so many, including myself, feel passionate about.
“Its blend of ethical values, bold creativity and uncompromising quality sets it apart. I’m looking forward to meeting and working with the team to shape the future while staying true to what makes Hotel Chocolat so loved.”
Martin has succeeded Lysa Hardy who joined Hotel Chocolat in 2018 and became UK chief executive, global brand and innovation in September 2024. Hardy is a former chief customer officer of Joules and also previously worked as chief commercial officer at Holland & Barrett.
Hardy said on LinkedIn: “After seven fabulous years, it’s time for a new chapter. Today I step away from my role at Hotel Chocolat with enormous pride and gratitude.
“I’ve always believed a brand is built from the inside out, and Hotel Chocolat is proof of that — the best of people, united in their passion for great chocolate. I can’t wait to cheer them on as the brand continues to thrive.”
Hardy said she will be taking a mini sabbatical with some travel before stepping into “an exciting new chapter” in 2026.
