In his new role, Blanc will act as a consultant to the group's food and beverage division across its hotels, trains and cruises. His first project is to design and develop the restaurant at the group's latest property; El Encanto in Santa Barbara, California, which is due to open in 2012. Paul White, president and chief executive of Orient-Express Hotels, commented on the appointment: "Raymond is one of the world's most talented chefs and he has an amazing track record of encouraging his colleagues on to greater achievement. "No less than 25 Michelin-starred chefs trained with Raymond at some point in their careers. I know my colleagues in Orient-Express restaurants and kitchens all over the world will be delighted to have his input and benefit from his knowledge." Blanc is delighted to work more closely with Orient-Express hotels. He said: "Unlike many hotel companies, Orient-Express runs its own restaurants and the reason they are successful is because they really aren't hotel dining rooms, but restaurants in the true meaning of the word. "There are still many ways to enhance these offerings and I look forward to this opportunity to get more involved with my Orient-Express colleagues."