James Barnett

Consistently lauded as a top hotel in the Midwest, Deer Path Inn proudly introduces James Barnett as the new general manager and innkeeper. Celebrating its 95th anniversary this year, Deer Path Inn is a point of pride for residents of Chicago's North Shore, and a haven for guests traveling from around the world. Barnett will lead the 57-room boutique property known for its traditional English innkeeping and highly personalized service.

Born in Australia, Barnett began his hospitality career at the picturesque ski resort, Thredbo, in New South Wales. He then became the general manager of the Soho House property, Electric House, in London, overseeing private member clubs, its on-site restaurant, and an immersive cinema experience. After his time in the UK, he moved to the Windy City in 2014 to take the reins at Soho House Chicago, further amplifying its legacy with his leadership across its multifaceted outlets. Barnett went on to become the Global Task Force General Manager for Soho House, ensuring brand brilliance from the beaches of Malibu to the bustling streets of Berlin and Amsterdam. Most recently, he served as the VP of Hospitality at Bonhomme Hospitality, overseeing a diverse portfolio of seven locations, boasting 11 distinct concepts.

In his new role, Barnett will blend his hotel management background with his F+B expertise to evolve the hotel's acclaimed food and beverage program, which includes the distinguished English Room and White Hart Pub, the stand-out cocktail service in The Bar, and the refined Afternoon Tea service. He will work with the team to ideate and present elevated programming that appeals to all visitors, both local and far-flung.