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AmaWaterways appoints Toni Stoeckl to lead marketing
AmaWaterways has announced the appointment of Toni Stoeckl as its new Chief Creative and Marketing Officer, effective 13 April 2026. Stoeckl, renowned for his expertise in luxury hospitality and brand development, will spearhead the river cruise line's creative and marketing vision as it embarks on its next phase of global growth. Stoeckl's career began at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, where he played a pivotal role in establishing W Hotels and revitalising brands like St. Regis. He later joined Marriott International, pioneering its first lifestyle portfolio and expanding brands such as EDITION and Moxy Hotels. Most recently, he served as Chief Marketing Officer at Starwood Hotels, where he integrated culture and storytelling into brand ecosystems. Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways, expressed enthusiasm for Stoeckl's appointment, stating, "Toni brings a rare combination of creative vision and strong commercial acumen, along with a deep understanding of how to take guests on a meaningful brand journey." Stoeckl aims to enhance brand awareness, strengthen CRM capabilities, and scale e-commerce strategies. He will also focus on trade partnerships and building a data-led marketing engine. "I’m very excited to join AmaWaterways at such a dynamic moment in its growth," Stoeckl remarked. Stoeckl succeeds Michal Maguire, who will continue as Senior Vice President of Marketing, focusing on integrated marketing efforts. Powell praised Maguire's contributions, noting her role in shaping the brand's future This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
Andy Tan named general manager of Varel Singapore
Varel Singapore, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, announced the appointment of Andy Tan as its new general manager. Tan's appointment comes as the design-led lifestyle hotel draws closer to its opening in the character-rich Selegie–Mount Sophia enclave next month. He will lead the hotel’s pre-opening preparations, from team building and cultivating a distinctive service culture to ensuring close alignment between owner and brand, as well as shaping the go-to-market strategy across key segments and distribution channels, with a clear focus on people development and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Under his leadership, Varel Singapore will focus on delivering disciplined commercial strategy alongside thoughtful guest experiences aligned with Tribute Portfolio’s spirit of ‘Stay with Character’ and its Sincere Service philosophy. Meet Andy Tan With more than three decades of hospitality and travel experience, Tan brings a strong blend of operational leadership and commercial acumen, underpinned by a proven track record in pre-openings, brand positioning, and performance-led execution. A forward-thinking business builder, he previously held senior regional and global leadership roles across Asia Pacific, Europe, and international markets with some of the world’s most influential hospitality and travel groups. These include Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Pan Pacific Hotels Group, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. His career spans hotels, serviced residences, lifestyle concepts, food and beverage, strategic partnerships, and both B2B and B2C distribution, giving him a distinctive, end-to-end perspective of the hospitality ecosystem. Most recently, Tan served in a senior leadership capacity at Millennium Hotels & Resorts, supporting commercial performance and operational alignment across its global portfolio. Beyond his executive roles, he also serves on the Board of Directors of the Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) and is an active member of the Sustainability and Technical Committees of the Singapore Hotel Association. Through these platforms, he contributes to industry advancement in operational efficiency, workforce development, and service excellence. Tan holds a Master’s degree in International Hospitality & Service Management from Glion Institute of Higher Education. He is multilingual and speaks English, Mandarin, Thai, Malay, and several Chinese dialects. As the Southeast Asia flagship of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, Varel Singapore marks a significant milestone for the brand in the region. Positioned as an ‘urban oasis’ rooted in neighbourhood connection and creative energy, the hotel aims to establish a distinct presence within Singapore’s evolving boutique hospitality landscape. Under Andy’s leadership, Varel Singapore will focus on delivering disciplined commercial strategy alongside thoughtful guest experiences aligned with Tribute Portfolio’s spirit of ‘Stay with Character’ and its Sincere Service philosophy. A forward-thinking business builder, he previously held senior regional and global leadership roles across Asia Pacific, Europe, and international markets with some of the world’s most influential hospitality and travel groups. These include Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Pan Pacific Hotels Group, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. His career spans hotels, serviced residences, lifestyle concepts, food and beverage, strategic partnerships, and both B2B and B2C distribution, giving him a distinctive, end-to-end perspective of the hospitality ecosystem. Most recently, Tan served in a senior leadership capacity at Millennium Hotels & Resorts, supporting commercial performance and operational alignment across its global portfolio. Beyond his executive roles, he also serves on the Board of Directors of the Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) and is an active member of the Sustainability and Technical Committees of the Singapore Hotel Association. Through these platforms, he contributes to industry advancement in operational efficiency, workforce development, and service excellence. Tan holds a Master’s degree in International Hospitality & Service Management from Glion Institute of Higher Education. He is multilingual and speaks English, Mandarin, Thai, Malay, and several Chinese dialects.
1 Hotels launches eco-friendly loyalty programme
1 Hotels, a luxury lifestyle brand founded by Barry Sternlicht, has unveiled its new Mission Membership programme, a loyalty initiative that prioritises environmental impact and personalisation over traditional points systems. Launched on 8 December, the programme allows members to contribute 1% of their qualifying spend to one of three environmental nonprofits: the Natural Resources Defence Council, Oceanic Global, or Green Our Planet. Members can choose which cause to support, with donations managed by GlobalGiving. The programme is designed to deepen the guest experience by offering curated perks and exclusive opportunities. Unlike conventional loyalty schemes, Mission Membership focuses on engagement rather than transactional metrics, reflecting 1 Hotels' commitment to sustainability and mindful luxury. As part of the initiative, a tree is planted for every new member through a partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, supporting the growth of 100,000 trees in California. Members enjoy unique benefits from sustainability-focused brands such as Everlane and Remedy Place, with additional perks like room upgrades and early access to special events. Starting in 2026, members will also receive discounts on Audi vehicles in the US. Raul Leal, CEO of Starwood Hotels, stated, "This programme was created with intention for travellers who expect more from the brands they choose and want to be part of something meaningful." The initiative also includes immersive experiences at various 1 Hotels locations, such as culinary bike rides in Copenhagen and mixology classes in Seattle. The Mission Membership programme is part of 1 Hotels' broader strategy to integrate sustainability into the guest journey, offering a platform for impact whilst enhancing the travel experience. ```
Rico Picenoni is Langham Hospitality’s first-ever global head of residential
Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) welcomed Rico Picenoni as its first-ever global head of residential earlier this week. The newly created leadership post is aimed at advancing the company’s design, branding and operation of private homes amid a surge in property developments comprising both hotels and permanent dwellings. According to LHG chief executive Bob van den Oord: “The rise in mixed-use developments where we can offer hotel management and branded residence services in conjunction allows us to serve our clients more holistically. It also enables consumers to not just experience our hospitality during their travels, but in the places they choose to call home. Rico’s rare blend of branded residence and hotel operations experience makes him uniquely qualified to lead this key area of growth for the Group.” Underscoring LHG’s growing commitment to the Middle East, where it’s due to open its first hotel in 2029, Picenoni will be permanently based in Dubai. Meet Rico Picenoni Picenoni is a graduate of Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne and additionally holds qualifications in real estate investments, asset management, and negotiations. His experience includes operations roles with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts in the United States and Starwood Hotels & Resorts in the United Arab Emirates, giving him a first-hand understanding of the supporting services that underpin residential projects backed by hospitality brands. Most recently Picenoni helmed the branded residential consultancy team at Savills from the company’s London headquarters. The global practice group has managed advisory mandates across more than 50 countries with a combined development value exceeding US$45 billion. Prior to that, he oversaw residential and extended-stay development across the Middle East and Africa for Accor, where he also held senior feasibility and project assessment roles. The branded residence expertise he honed during these engagements was also informed by his preceding post as an asset manager for Seven Tides Hospitality, where he oversaw residential properties operated by Minor Hotels Group and Mövenpick, among other international hospitality firms.
1 Hotel Melbourne officially opens for guests offering 277 sustainable keys
1 Hotel Melbourne is Now Open Credit: Mikkel Vang 1 Hotels, the mission-driven luxury lifestyle brand founded by hospitality visionary Barry Sternlicht, proudly announces the official opening of 1 Hotel Melbourne. This nature-inspired property marks the brand's long-anticipated debut in Australia, redefining the future of luxury hospitality in the heart of one of the world's most forward-thinking cities. Developed in partnership with Melbourne-based Riverlee, the hotel is set along 220 meters of uninterrupted Yarra River frontage in the revitalized North Wharf precinct. The building is a celebration of Melbourne's storied past and a blueprint for a more sustainable future, brought to life through biophilic design principles and a commitment to living in harmony with nature. The architectural centerpiece of the project is the restored Goods Shed No. 5, Melbourne's last remaining heritage goods shed from the city's shipping heyday. The hotel is also designed to foster connection, creativity, and community, buzzing from day to night with chef-led dining, wellness experiences, and a dynamic lineup of Happenings—from sound baths and DJ sets to zero-waste cocktail workshops. "The opening of 1 Hotel Melbourne marks a powerful moment for our brand as we expand in the Asia Pacific region," says Barry Sternlicht, 1 Hotels Founder and Chairman of Starwood Hotels. "As we grow our global footprint, we're focused on markets that reflect our values—places where nature, culture, and innovation converge in meaningful ways. Melbourne is a city that not only understands the importance of sustainability, it celebrates it." "At 1 Hotels, we've always believed that true luxury is rooted in purpose, impact, and authentic experiences," said Raul Leal, CEO of Starwood Hotels. "1 Hotel Melbourne brings sustainability and style into harmony, with a focus on wellness, local connection, and day-to-night programming that creates a tangible sense of place. From the moment you arrive, you feel like you're part of the city." "Through our partnership with 1 Hotels, we have reimagined this heritage waterfront site into a sustainable luxury destination that honors Melbourne's maritime past while setting new benchmarks for environmental stewardship," says David Lee, Development Director at Riverlee. "This project perfectly embodies Riverlee's commitment to creating visionary developments that respect our city's past while building for its future." Design Shaped by Nature and History 1 Hotel Melbourne's design narrative is anchored in the brand's nature-first ethos and commitment to biophilic design—an approach that taps into the untamed landscapes of Victoria, from the rugged cliffs of the Great Ocean Road to the lush canopies of the Dandenong Ranges. Here, nature isn't an escape from the city—it's a dialogue with it, creating an urban sanctuary that blurs the boundary between built and natural environments, with a deep and immersive sense of place. At the heart of the design is the site itself: the historic Seafarers wharf, in continuous use since 1855. Its centerpiece is the heritage-listed Goods Shed No. 5. Originally built in 1895, the shed was once a vital part of Melbourne's maritime economy, processing massive amounts of cargo before falling into disuse in the 1970s. More than 2,000 original elements have been salvaged, catalogued, and reincorporated, including bluestone pavers, steel trusses, timber doors, and window frames. The adjacent Malcolm Moore crane, a 1942 industrial relic and the last of its kind in Victoria, has been restored and repositioned as a sculptural tribute to the area's shipping past. From the moment guests enter 1 Hotel Melbourne's soaring lobby—anchored by a dramatic rock wall constructed from split-faced granite, an industrial by-product that echoes Victoria's coastal geology—they are immersed in a story of regeneration and renewal. Reclaimed timber is a defining feature, with more than 4,500 square meters (the equivalent of 18 tennis courts) used in the hotel. The reception desk is made with repurposed elm trees from Melbourne's Metro Tunnel works. In the lounge, decommissioned railway bridges were transformed into a sweeping staircase. And in the signature restaurant, From Here by Mike, the original support beams from the Goods Shed have been repurposed as dramatic portals. Throughout the property, more than 7,000 plants bring Victoria's biodiversity indoors, reinforcing the hotel's biophilic approach. The hotel features 277 tranquil guest rooms, including 36 suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame skyline or Yarra River views. Guest rooms feature walls made from discarded railway sleepers across Victoria and New South Wales. Guest room door numbers are displayed on reclaimed timber panels crafted from original subaquatic piers salvaged during the site's wharf restoration, featuring distinctive marine worm markings and accented with preserved moss above and below. Smart thermostats, energy-saving switches, and low-VOC materials reinforce the hotel's light-touch approach. In addition to the rooms and suites, 1 Hotel Melbourne offers 114 hotel-branded homes. Residents in these luxury, waterfront homes will enjoy exclusive services such as chef-catered private dinners and in-residence spa treatments. The crowning jewel is the 18th floor penthouse designed by Riverlee founder Clement Lee OAM, in collaboration with Fender Katsalidis. Residents have access to a private outdoor terrace, lounge, library, and dining space with sweeping views of the river and the skyline. The debut of 1 Hotel Melbourne also marks the launch of Regeneration: The Art of Renewal, a site-specific art program curated for the property by One Design Office in collaboration with DarkLab, a subsidiary of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Works have been commissioned from Vanessa Barragão, Jamie North, and Indigenous Australian artists Naminapu Maymuru-White and Yhonnie Scarce. The collection brings together Indigenous and contemporary perspectives on resilience, culture, and environmental healing through reclaimed and natural materials. From suspended glass eel forms to towering plant-infused concrete sculptures, it's a sensory journey. Dining and Celebrations, Reimagined 1 Hotel Melbourne's food and beverage experiences are guided by the same philosophy that defines the property itself. Every detail—from the sourcing of ingredients to the design of the spaces—has been carefully considered to nourish guests and respect the planet. From Here by Mike, the signature restaurant, marks the first hotel collaboration for renowned Australian chef Mike McEnearney, the force behind the acclaimed Sydney restaurant Kitchen by Mike and the author of two celebrated cookbooks. Known for his produce-driven cooking, low-waste approach, and menus that champion hyper-local sourcing, McEnearney has built a reputation for food that connects people and place. From Here by Mike's dishes are designed for sharing and range from Freshly Shucked Oysters with Pickled Daikon & Finger Lime Vinaigrette to Twice Baked Goat's Cheese Soufflé with Rosemary Cream. The beverage program includes a 40% local wine list with biodynamic selections and cocktails built around repurposed ingredients. The space itself is moody and textural—designed to reflect the raw beauty of the natural world. Additional venues at 1 Hotel Melbourne expand on the brand's approach to conscious hospitality. Crane Bar & Lounge serves up botanical cocktails made with locally distilled spirits and a soundtrack of live DJ sets. Neighbours Café is a light, plant-filled space for barista-made coffee, nutrient-dense meals, smoothies, and power-packed energy shots. And then there's Upstairs, a cocktail bar hidden away on the first floor that trades in word-of-mouth magic. It's the kind of speakeasy-style place you hear about from a friend, where artfully crafted cocktails, elevated bites, and spontaneous conversations create a night to remember. 1 Hotel Melbourne is also set to become a go-to destination for gatherings that are both beautiful and low-impact, with over 1,000 square meters of flexible event space. The riverside Seafarers Event Space accommodates up to 900 guests and features expansive river views and cutting-edge AV capabilities. Additional meeting suites—including a boardroom and lounge—can be used individually or combined for larger functions. Spaces have been designed using biophilic principles and daylighting strategies, with reclaimed materials and lush greenery. The thoughtful programming includes locally sourced catering menus and zero-waste event planning in collaboration with the in-house sustainability team. The Certified Sustainable Gatherings program ensures each event aligns with 1 Hotels' sustainable mission. Immersive by Nature 1 Hotel Melbourne's signature programming invites guests to connect deeply—with the city, with nature, and with themselves. The curated calendar of Happenings touches nearly every facet of the guest experience, from wellness and fitness to food, art, and culture. Days are filled with moments of movement and mindfulness—sunrise river runs, guided breathwork, tarot card readings, and experiences like a DIY salt-blending workshop. In the evening, the energy shifts with full moon sound healing sessions, seasonal tastings, wine and cheese pairings, and cocktail events that spotlight local makers and ingredients. The calendar evolves with the seasons, from Wellness Month in August to Melbourne Fashion Week in October. Much of the programming is co-created with local talent—from chefs and herbalists to musicians and artists—ensuring a constantly evolving lineup that feels authentically Melbourne. It's all part of the brand's vision to make 1 Hotel Melbourne a true gathering place that's as welcoming to locals as it is to travelers. Wellness is woven into every element of the 1 Hotel Melbourne experience. At the heart of the offering is Bamford Wellness Spa, created in partnership with Carole Bamford, a pioneer in organic, sustainable, and holistic living. The spa offers a range of all-natural treatments, as well as a stunning wellness area with an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and a Jacuzzi-style spa. Guests also have access to The Field House Gym, a state-of-the-art fitness center outfitted with cutting-edge equipment, personal trainers, and a variety of movement and mindfulness experiences including yoga and meditation. The gym features locally sourced timber, Troldtekt acoustic panels made from certified wood, and Danish cement—materials selected for durability, performance, and low environmental impact. Sustainability that Goes Beyond the Surface At 1 Hotel Melbourne, sustainability is the foundation that guides every aspect of the property—not just within operational systems, but with the guest experience. While the hotel is on track to achieve LEED Silver certification with efficient systems like a 50kW solar array and 50kl rainwater harvesting, what makes this property unique is how sustainability becomes experiential. Guided by nature, guests are immersed in greenery, texture, and tone that celebrate Melbourne and create an urban sanctuary where the city feels like an island retreat. Thoughtful details like shower timers and operable windows in 85% of the rooms make mindful living effortless, without compromise. The sustainable ethos continues outside. The adjacent Seafarers Rest Park offers 3,500 square meters of native-planted green space. Created in accordance with the Yarra River Protection Principles, the park enhances biodiversity and public access to the waterfront while honoring the site's maritime history. It's part of a broader vision to make the North Wharf precinct a more livable, walkable, and inclusive destination. 1 Hotel Melbourne also invites guests to explore the city mindfully: The property is just steps from iconic arts, culture, and sporting venues and has direct access to Melbourne's free tram line. For guests who want to explore by car, the Audi Electric Vehicle Experience takes them around in a complimentary fully electric Audi Q6 e-tron. A New Kind of Stay 1 Hotel Melbourne is built on the idea that where you stay should reflect how you want to live: with style and purpose. It's not just about checking in, it's about tuning in to the city, to nature, and to what truly matters.
Charlotte Weatherall appointed General Manager at Corinthia London
Corinthia Hotels announces the appointment of Charlotte Weatherall as the new General Manager at Corinthia London. Effective July 1, 2025, Charlotte assumes the role following her tenure as Director of Sales and Marketing at the hotel, where she has led a team to deliver outstanding financial results while enhancing the hotel’s reputation for exceptional and memorable guest experiences. Charlotte brings over two decades of luxury hospitality experience across the UK and UAE. She has held senior roles at prestigious brands including Rocco Forte Hotels, Mandarin Oriental, Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Langham. Charlotte balances commercial acumen with a deep commitment to people, cultivating a culture where high performance and genuine fulfilment go hand in hand. “It is an honour to be entrusted with the role of General Manager at Corinthia London. This reflects the company’s values, its leadership, and the spirit of Corinthia in supporting the growth and development of its people,” said Charlotte. “I am proud to lead the outstanding team at the hotel into this exciting new era as the brand continues to expand, ensuring that Corinthia London proudly remains a flagship hotel for the group and one of the leading luxury hotels in the city.” Speaking of her appointment, Simon Casson, CEO Corinthia Hotels comments, “We are delighted to see Charlotte take this post as General Manager at Corinthia London – an iconic hotel in the city and for our brand. She successfully balances business objectives, profitability, leadership and purpose. She champions philanthropy and wellness at work, while driving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion, making her a fantastic role model in our industry."
Torsten Richter is new general manager at Anantara Siam Bangkok
Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel just announced the appointment of Torsten Richter as its new general manager. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades in luxury hospitality, he brings a wealth of international experience, strategic leadership, and a deep commitment to service excellence to his new role. Richter joins Anantara Siam Bangkok from his most recent position as Minor Hotels' area general manager for Malaysia & Indonesia, and general manager of Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas. His extensive background includes leadership roles at some of the world's most prestigious hotel brands across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Likewise, Richter’s expertise in guest experience, operational efficiency, and brand positioning makes him an ideal leader to steer Anantara Siam Bangkok into a new era of success. Minor Hotels’ vice-president for F&B and operations in Asia Mark O'Sullivan said of the new general manager: “Torsten's appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Anantara Siam Bangkok. His deep operational expertise, strategic mindset, and passion for excellence make him the perfect fit to lead one of our flagship properties. We are confident that under his leadership, the hotel will continue to set new benchmarks in luxury hospitality and guest experience.” Meet Torsten Richter A native of Germany, Torsten began his hospitality career in 1989 with an apprenticeship as a hotel and food and beverage expert at Schlosshotel Bühlerhöhe, one of the leading hotels in the world. After earning a Diploma in Hotel Management, he gained valuable experience at renowned properties, including The MARK Hotel in New York, where he held positions as Maitre d'Hotel and Restaurant Manager. He later joined Starwood's Leaders Development GM Fast Track programme, which led to his first general manager post at Le Méridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort in Thailand in 2008. Since then, Richter has held general manager positions at several prestigious hotels, including The Sarasvati, a Luxury Collection Resort in Bali; The Ritz-Carlton in Berlin; The JAFFA, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Tel Aviv; and SO/Bangkok. Commenting on his appointment, he stated: “It is an honour to lead Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, an iconic property that exemplifies the perfect blend of Thai tradition and modern luxury. I look forward to working with the talented team to elevate our offerings and create exceptional experiences for our guests.”
Accor appoints David Fraser as VP-Operations for four brands in the Pacific
Accor has appointed hospitality veteran and asset manager David Fraser as vice-president for operations for the Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems brands across the Pacific. Fraser’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment as Sofitel undergoes a transformative renewal phase and MGallery is poised for strategic expansion. He brings over 25 years of industry experience, having previously served as head of asset management at Axsia HTL, where he oversaw projects and transactions exceeding $16 billion. His career spans senior roles with Marriott International, Starwood, and Hyatt, and he returns to Accor, where he worked from 1995 to 2005. Fraser said of the appointment: “I am excited to return to the Accor family and work with these much-loved brands. I've always been passionate about collaborating with owners and teams to reposition and elevate hotels, optimize performance, and enhance guest experiences. Joining the Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems brands gives me the opportunity to bring this experience to some of the Pacific's most iconic luxury properties.” A key player for regional expansion According to Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems: “I am delighted to count on David's talent and strong expertise to continue expanding in the Pacific, a region that is especially dear to us. It is also one of the most advanced regions in terms of sustainability and responsible luxury, perfectly aligning with our brand ambitions. Together, we look forward to reaching new heights with an unprecedented development pipeline over the next three years.” Bailly added that Australia has always been a key market for Sofitel and MGallery, as it is home to several flagship properties such as Sofitel Darling Harbour and MGallery Manly Pacific which recently won the Prix de Versailles. She remarked: “2024 has been a record-breaking year for our luxury brands globally, marked by a new dynamic with 90 new hotels signed in the pipeline and major renovations, including Sofitel Sydney Wentworth.” Crafting the region's luxury brand of choice The scope of Fraser’s work with the brands covers 21 luxury hotels across Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, including Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, Sofitel Adelaide, Sofitel Wellington, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, and Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, which recently relaunched after a $70 million renovation. The MGallery Collection, including Manly Pacific Hotel Sydney, The Porter House Hotel Sydney, Hotel Chadstone Melbourne, and Hotel St Moritz Queenstown, is positioned for rapid growth. The Pacific is also a strategic market for developing Emblems, a collection of emblematic luxury hotels serving as flagships for their destinations. Globally, Emblems aims to grow to 60 properties by 2030. Fraser said: “Here in the Pacific, my goal is to make Sofitel the luxury brand of choice with its French zest and to grow MGallery into the region's fastest-growing boutique luxury brand, offering meaningful and memorable moments to its guests. I'm also eager to explore opportunities to bring the prestigious Emblems brand to the Pacific.”
Mauricio Patino joins Velas Resorts’ Meetings & Incentives Team as regional sales director
Velas Resorts in Mexico is pleased to announce the appointment of Mauricio Patino as regional sales director for Meetings and Incentives. With over two decades of expertise in sales, marketing, hotel operations, and business development, Mauricio brings a wealth of knowledge and an established track record of success to his new role. “We are thrilled to welcome Mauricio Patino to the Velas Resorts Meetings & Incentives family! Bringing over 20 years of expertise in hospitality, sales, marketing, and business development, Mauricio adds an invaluable depth of knowledge and fresh strategies to our organization," says Cynthia Kunz, Senior Global Sales Director for Velas Resorts. Throughout his career, Mauricio has worked with some of the world’s top hotel brands and travel organizations consistently delivering innovative strategies that drive growth, enhance guest experiences, and elevate hotel operations. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Mauricio leverages his cultural awareness to build meaningful relationships and foster impactful collaborations across diverse markets. He is an active member of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) and is set to serve as President of the Florida & Caribbean Chapter in 2025. Previous experience includes the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, Dolce Hotels & Resorts, and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. "Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Mauricio as he embarks on this exciting new chapter with the Velas Resorts MICE team,” adds Kunz. “His unique perspectives, solid industry relationships, and outstanding sales skills will be instrumental to our future success.”
Zoe Seow is new sales and marketing director at W Kuala Lumpur
W Kuala Lumpur announced the appointment of Zoe Seow as its new director of sales and marketing. Seow formally stepped into the role on 4th November, succeeding Lisa Low, who has recently been promoted to hotel manager. With a remarkable career spanning nearly two decades in the hospitality industry, Seow brings a wealth of expertise in sales, marketing, revenue optimization, and strategic growth to the W Kuala Lumpur team. Hotel general manager Volker Burth said of this recent appointment, “W Kuala Lumpur is delighted to welcome Zoe Seow as she embarks on this exciting new chapter at the leading luxury city escape in beautiful Kuala Lumpur. Her innovative approach and proven expertise in the industry make her an invaluable addition to our team. We look forward to her continued success as she leads the Sales & Marketing department with unparalleled energy and commitment.” Aiming to deliver an unexpected and exceptional stay for all guests and connectors in town, Volker added that to work in hospitality is to turn strangers into friends and guests into family and hospitality is about making people feel seen and valued. With Seow’s talent and passion, the hotel’s connectors are in for something extraordinary. Impeccable credentials Seow began her journey at Equatorial Regional Office as a Reservation Agent, where her dedication quickly propelled her forward. She advanced to the role of Account Manager at Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel before joining The Westin Kuala Lumpur as Assistant Director of Business Development in 2009. Her outstanding leadership and drive were recognized, and in 2011 she was promoted to Assistant Director of Sales. In 2012, Seow joined the Starwood Malaysia National Sales Team as Assistant Director of Sales, playing an integral role within the pioneering group. Her significant contributions continued, and in 2014 she ascended to the role of Director of Sales, where she was instrumental in the successful pre-opening of Four Points by Sheraton Puchong. Most recently, she served as Director of Sales & Marketing at Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur, where her strategic vision led to impressive growth and strong revenue outcomes across various business segments. Her leadership was further demonstrated through her work with the pre-opening task force for Sheraton Kuching and as part of the countdown team for Moxy Putrajaya in 2024.
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