The Hawthorn by Galway Bay, Galway’s first five-star hotel in over two decades opens in Spring 2026
With more than three decades of international hospitality leadership under his belt, John brings a deep well of knowledge, global luxury experience, and visionary leadership to this landmark project. An Irish national returning home, John’s appointment marks a significant milestone for The Hawthorn , a property designed by nature and refined by ambition, promising a world-class experience set along the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way.
Educated at Thames Valley University and trained at the iconic Ritz Hotel in London, John has built an impressive career managing some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts. His journey has taken him across the UK, Asia, the Caribbean, and Europe, from opening Sandals Emerald Bay in the Bahamas to leading five-star resorts in China, Indonesia, and Taiwan, to overseeing operations at Brocket Hall and Palmerston Hotels & Resorts.
Most recently, John served as General Manager at Fairmont St Andrews in Scotland, where he led a transformative multi-million pound renovation of the property and spearheaded numerous award-winning initiatives. Under his leadership, the hotel earned accolades including the AA Eco Hotel of the Year, CIS Excellence Awards for Sustainability, and Fife’s Greenest Business Award, a testament to John’s ongoing commitment to environmentally conscious hospitality.
He also implemented groundbreaking programmes such as the Junior Hotelier Apprenticeship and Graduate Business Apprenticeship, championing youth development and future talent in the sector. His leadership has earned him personal recognition, including being shortlisted for General Manager of the Year at the Catey Awards and Best Hotel General Manager at the Scottish Hospitality Awards.
At The Hawthorn by Galway Bay, John will lead the pre-opening and operational launch of this exceptional property, which includes 114 beautifully appointed suites and rooms, an experiential wellness spa, a live-fire restaurant (The Skylark), a collection of serene pools and thermal experiences, a bar overlooking Galway Bay, and an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr. The hotel is set on a spectacular stretch of Galway’s coastline, surrounded by native hawthorn trees, just minutes from the city, a peaceful escape inspired by the land and seascape around it.
Speaking on his appointment, John said:
“It’s a rare and special privilege to return to Ireland and take the helm of such a significant new chapter in Irish hospitality. The Hawthorn is a visionary project, not just for Galway, but for the west of Ireland – and I look forward to building something truly exceptional alongside a passionate, talented team.”
The appointment of John Keating reinforces The Hawthorn by Galway Bay’s commitment to excellence and setting a new standard for luxury in the region.
About The Hawthorn by Galway Bay
Opening in Spring 2026, The Hawthorn by Galway Bay is set to be a five-star luxury hotel set on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Surrounded by nature and inspired by the beauty of the west coast, the hotel will feature a signature restaurant, experiential spa, championship golf course, and elegant accommodations designed to celebrate landscape, light, and locality.
This landmark property is part of the Connacht Hospitality Group, a leading Irish hospitality company with a strong portfolio of hotels, bars, and leisure destinations throughout Galway.
