Dakota Hotels has recently been spotlighted in The Sunday Times’ prestigious list of the ‘Best Places to Work’ for 2024. This accolade highlights the top employers in the UK, known for their high levels of employee satisfaction and well-being.
Recognised as one of the top 10 ‘big’ organisations, Dakota Hotels also secured the ‘Best Places to Work for LGBTQIA+ Employees’ award, affirming its commitment to inclusivity and excellence in the hospitality industry.



Excellence in Employee Experience
The ranking by The Sunday Times is based on stringent criteria that measure aspects like employee satisfaction, workplace culture, benefits, opportunities for growth, and the overall employee experience. Dakota Hotels excels in fostering a work environment that values respect, appreciation, and support.
The hotel group’s focus on service and commitment to its team translates into a workplace where every team member is respected for their unique contributions.
More Than Just a Workplace
Katie Forrest, Head of Engagement, Learning and Development at Dakota Hotels, describes the organisation as a family and a community.
“It is not just a place of employment but a home away from home for both guests and team members.”
This deep-seated culture is what Forrest believes sets Dakota apart as a truly exceptional organisation in the hospitality sector.
A Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The recognition as the ‘Best Place to Work for LGBTQIA+ Employees’ is a testament to Dakota Hotels’ progressive values. The Manchester-based hotel chain encourages its employees to “be your best self,” which is reflected in the high engagement scores among its LGBTQIA+ team members.
This inclusive approach is central to the group’s ethos and contributes significantly to its high employee satisfaction rates.
Expanding Horizons
With properties in major cities across England and Scotland including Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, Motherwell, and Edinburgh, Dakota Hotels continues to grow.
The group is set to expand its presence with the opening of a new hotel in Newcastle’s Quayside in the spring of 2025. This expansion not only broadens Dakota’s geographical footprint but also its influence in the hospitality industry.
Award-Winning Service and Accommodation
Dakota Hotels is renowned for its sophisticated yet approachable style, offering luxurious accommodations and sociable dining experiences. With a philosophy of doing the simple things brilliantly, Dakota ensures a memorable experience for all its guests. Their properties feature stylish bedrooms, destination cocktail bars, exceptional grills, and inviting terraces. The group’s commitment to quality has earned it numerous accolades, including a Michelin Plate and a Hotel Catey in 2022, further cementing its status as a leader in luxury hospitality.
Dakota Hotels not only provides a stellar guest experience but also nurtures a workplace culture that many in the hospitality industry aspire to. It is a shining example of how a focus on comprehensive employee care can elevate a brand to new heights.