Returning to the hotel where she got her start in the hospitality industry, Stacey Hopkins has been appointed the Mount Nelson’s new Hotel Manager, starting 10 September 2026.
Amid Women’s Month celebrations, Hopkins becomes the first woman to hold the role at the Mount Nelson, breaking with tradition and cementing her as one of the few female hotel managers at luxury hotels on the African continent. Here’s everything visitors need to know.
About Stacey Hopkins
Starting at the Orient-Express Hotels at Mount Nelson before progressing through various roles at the Nellie and Westcliff Hotels, Hopkins made a name for herself at the five-star conference hotel, The Westin, owned by Marriott, spending over a decade rising through the ranks and eventually becoming the Director of Sales and Marketing in 2019.
Most recently, she served as the Director of Sales and Marketing at Cape Grace, a Fairmont Managed Hotel, helping the institution successfully relaunch following its nine-month, floor-to-ceiling refurbishment and renovation by design firm 1508 London in 2024.
Now, she reports to Patrick Fisher, the hotel’s General Manager appointed in 2025, helping kickstart a new era at the Nellie. Fisher commented on the significance of Hopkins’ new role: “Not only does she become the first woman to serve as Hotel Manager in the hotel’s history, but she returns to the very place where her career began.”
This full-circle moment is an important step in the new Hotel Manager’s career. “Twenty-eight years ago, I joined Mount Nelson as a trainee, never imagining I would one day return as its Hotel Manager. Coming back to lead a hotel that shaped the start of my career is incredibly special.” She ended her comments with a statement of intent: “My vision is to honour Mount Nelson’s remarkable heritage while ensuring every guest experiences the warmth, authenticity and unmistakable sense of place that have made it one of Africa’s most iconic hotels.”
Visit the Mount Nelson
The Nellie is one of Cape Town’s most iconic locations, known for its beloved architecture, lush gardens, and acclaimed high tea. With seasonal menu changes, five-star accommodation, and fresh experiences added to the calendar regularly, there’s always something new to try at the Pink Lady.
Where: Mount Nelson, 76 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town
Website: belmond.com
Instagram: @BelmondMountNelsonHotel
Facebook: @MountNelsonHotel
Phone number: 021 483 1000
Indulge in good food and fine wine at the Mount Nelson’s restaurants and bars
