Hilton further bolsters its UK & Ireland development team with appointment of Terii Dunne

Hotel & Restaurant Magazine

September 30, 2025

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) has announced another senior addition to their UK & Ireland (UK&I) development team – Terii Dunne – joins today as Director of development.

Dunne has a wealth of experience in hotel business development in a career that spans over 20 years. She joins the team of Paul Blackmore, the recently installed vice president of development for Hilton in the UK&I, and Nick Smart, vice president, who leads development for Hilton across the UK, Ireland and Nordics.

She joins from Best Western Hotels & Resorts, most recently as Director of Business Development, where she successfully expanded their brand portfolio during her tenure. Prior to this, Dunne has worked for Shiva Hotels Group, Danubius Hotel Regents Park, and London Premier Hotels.

The appointment comes at a time of strong momentum in the UK&I market, with Dunne brought in to build on the success and growing potential of collection brands including Tapestry Collection by Hilton, as well as in the premium economy space with Spark by Hilton.

Paul Blackmore, vice president, development, UK & Ireland, Hilton, said: “Terii’s appointment really showcases our commitment to UK and Ireland market expansion. We have a great opportunity to further develop and grow our portfolio of award-winning brands, which is where Terii’s expertise and extensive market experience will be instrumental. We look forward to building on our current momentum, bolstering our hotel pipeline and ensuring Hilton remains the partner of choice for owners.”

Terii Dunne, director, development, UK & Ireland, Hilton, said, “Hilton is renowned for its award-winning brands, its premium offering and its unwavering commitment to guest experience. To be able to contribute to its growth and expansion across the UK & Ireland is an incredibly exciting opportunity and I’m excited to join the team.”

Dunne’s appointment comes as Hilton recently announced the European debut of Tempo by Hilton with the signing of a property in Belfast City Centre. The hotel joins a growing portfolio of hotels in Northern Ireland, including the recently signed DoubleTree by Hilton Derry-Londonderry, DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast City Ten Square and the recently opened The Marcus Hotel Portrush, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.

Industry-disrupting premium economy brand Spark by Hilton also made its European debut in Romford recently, with Spark by Hilton Luton following shortly after, marking Hilton’s entry into this burgeoning segment – with more properties expected to follow in the coming months.