Accor announced the appointment of Gilles Cretallaz as the new senior vice-president of operations for Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems in Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, and the Maldives.
His appointment comes as Accor continues to strengthen the performance, positioning, and growth of the aforementioned brands throughout Asia.
In his new role, Cretallaz will oversee hotel operations, owner relationships, brand delivery, talent development and strategic growth initiatives across the five areas that serve as his jurisdiction.
He will also play a key role in supporting the next phase of transformation across the region, with several major renovation, repositioning and development projects underway.
Over time, Cretallaz will also support landmark renovation projects designed to strengthen the positioning of several iconic properties, including Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, Sofitel Saigon Plaza, and Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa.
Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery, and Emblems chief operating officer Markus Keller said of the new vice-president: "Gilles brings an exceptional combination of operational expertise, strategic vision and deep understanding of luxury hospitality across Asia. As we continue to strengthen our luxury presence and invest in some of our most iconic properties, his leadership will be instrumental in shaping the next chapter of growth for our brands across Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, and the Maldives."
A gracious return
Based in Bangkok, Cretallaz returns to Accor to lead a significant portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts across one of the world’s most exciting travel regions.
His return reflects Accor’s continued investment in experienced leadership as the Group expands its luxury footprint, elevates guest experiences and supports the long-term growth of its hotel portfolio across South-East Asia, Japan, Korea and the Maldives.Today, Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems represent more than 240 hotels worldwide, delivering distinctive luxury experiences rooted in culture, craftsmanship and meaningful connections.
With over three decades of experience in luxury hospitality, he brings deep operational expertise, strong owner relationships and an extensive understanding of hotel transformation across Asia.
His experience spans luxury operations, development, repositioning and performance, making him ideally placed to guide the continued evolution of Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery, and Emblems across the region.
Prior to rejoining Accor, Cretallaz served as chief operating officer at Dusit International, overseeing a portfolio of 60 hotels and resorts.
Earlier in his career, he spent more than 30 years with Accor, holding senior leadership roles across Asia Pacific and managing some of the region’s most renowned luxury hotels and destinations, including Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, SO/ Bangkok, Sofitel Bangkok, and multiple flagship properties across Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and China.
