Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia announces the appointment of James “Jimmy” Watt as its new Hotel Manager. With more than two decades of experience in fine dining and luxury hospitality, Jimmy brings a wealth of five-star global food and beverage expertise, including Michelin-level experience. In his new role, he will oversee hotel operations and further elevate the Hotel’s commitment to exceptional service and luxury hospitality in Philadelphia.
Jimmy joined Four Seasons in 2013 at Four Seasons Resort Maui, Hawaii where he made significant contributions across restaurant outlets, which received numerous accolades including Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond recognition. Throughout his career, Jimmy has held countless positions, most recently as a consultant for the re-opening of Four Seasons Hotel New York in Midtown. Prior to that, he led the culinary team in Four Seasons Hotel Madrid as the Director of Food and Beverage. With a strong background in food and beverage, his career encompasses working with highly acclaimed chefs including Dani Garcia and Akira Back, and holding distinguished leadership positions at Michelin star restaurants, 50 Best Bars, and one of the World’s 50 Best Hotels.
Jimmy holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Colorado, Boulder, complemented by international studies at the University of the Balearic Islands. With a strong foundation in hospitality, he continued to refine his expertise at the School of Hospitality of the Balearic Islands. His diverse educational background has shaped his approach to management with an extensive understanding of global hospitality standards.
Jimmy’s extensive career spans across the prestigious Four Seasons portfolio, with notable positions at Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, and most recently, leading the grand re-opening of Four Seasons Hotel New York. Now, Jimmy is excited to embrace his new chapter in the City of Brotherly Love, a city celebrated for its rich history, vibrant culture, and dynamic culinary scene. After spending 11 years abroad, Jimmy has returned to the mainland US with a unique connection to Pennsylvania. His grandparents both hail from the region, and his father spent much of his childhood there, later attending Bucknell University. This deep-rooted family tie makes his relocation feel even more personal. Along with his wife and son, Jimmy is thrilled to be settling into Philadelphia, where they will soon welcome a second son, due in late August. His move has sparked meaningful connections with the local community, and Jimmy looks forward to building even more bonds in this city that feels both familiar and full of new possibilities.
