Virgin Hotels Collection CEO Steps Down

Virgin Hotels Collection CEO James Bermingham has stepped down after nearly five years at the helm of the lifestyle hotel company. 

Bermingham became CEO of Virgin Hotels in 2021, then oversaw the birth of the new parent brand, Virgin Hotels Collection, which he became CEO of in 2023. Virgin Hotels Collection now encompasses Virgin Hotels, the boutique hotel brand, and Virgin Limited Edition, the collection of unique retreats. 

“We thank James Bermingham for his vision and the impact he has made across our business over the past five years,” a Virgin Hotels spokesperson said in a statement. “He has played a pivotal role in developing Virgin Hotels Collection and we wish him every success for the future.”   

In his place, Joe Margison, formerly chief commercial officer, assumed the role of interim CEO at the beginning of November and will remain in the position for the next 12 months. He has served on the Virgin Hotels Collection board for more than six years and led its real estate investment for 10 years.  

“We’re delighted to welcome Joe Margison as Interim Chief Executive Officer. Joe brings a wealth of experience from across the Virgin family [and] will provide strong leadership and continuity as the business enters its next phase of growth. It’s an exciting chapter ahead.”  

Virgin Hotels has hotels opening in Miami and Denver in 2026.