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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.
W Kuala Lumpur announces two promotions in its leadership team
Marriott International, Inc announced two promotions among W Kuala Lumpur’s leadership team. Lisa Low has been appointed as hotel manager, while Nuno Abreu is the new director for beverage and food. According to W Kuala Lumpur general director Volker Burth: “It is both a joy and an honour to be able to welcome our newly appointed leaders who are no stranger to the W Kuala Lumpur family. I have always admired their hard work and dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for guests, and even talents contributing to the hotel’s outstanding reputation on the local and international stage.” Burth expressed his confidence that both Low and Abreu will continue to uphold W culture in their new assignments. Who is Lisa Low? Low joined W Kuala Lumpur in February 2020, so she is no stranger to the hotel industry and to the brand. Prior to joining W Kuala Lumpur, Low began her career at the Four Seasons as a sales manager, later stepping up to become assistant director of sales at The Westin Langkawi and Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur. She then spent five years overseeing various properties under the Starwood Hotels umbrella including the St Regis and the Andaman. Later, she took on the position of director of sales at Hilton Kuala Lumpur. Meet Nuno Abreu Abreu, on the other hand, boasts of over 10 years of expertise within the food and beverage industry focused on the luxury and lifestyle segment. Like Low, he is no stranger to the Marriott family, having worked with The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm; The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and Autograph Collection. In this new position, he will continue to be in charge of the banquet service, in-room dining and the four B&F outlets at the hotel; Flock, YEN, Living Room (Woobar), and the WET Deck. Known for his creativity and an unwavering dedication to service excellence, Abreu will play a crucial role in overseeing the food and beverage operations and menu creations working closely with the hotel’s chefs, as well as beverage manager Avai Manogaran.
Destination DC announces Meade Atkeson as new board chairperson
Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, welcomes the appointment of Meade Atkeson as chair of the DDC Board of Directors. Atkeson is currently the area general manager for Royal Sonesta hotels in Washington, DC and Baltimore, and previously served as vice chairperson of the DDC board. “It’s an exciting time to be part of Destination DC and I’m thrilled to step into this leadership role,” said Atkeson. “Over the past eight years, I’ve fought for the funding that we need to keep attracting and retaining meetings and events of all sizes, from around the world. As chair, advocating for funding will remain at the top of my priorities.” Over a 38-year career with Marriott and Starwood, Atkeson has operated resort properties, lifestyle, luxury, downtown and convention hotels. Having a deep background in sales, marketing, revenue management and operations, his hotels have been consistent overachievers in each of their markets. His leadership embodies hospitality and creates a culture of pride, with an engaged, customer-focused team. “As former Hotel Association chair and an active member of our board since 2016, Meade understands our focus as an economic development organization. I look forward to his leadership as we continue to position Washington, DC on a global stage to earn our fair share of visitors from around the world,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of DDC. Atkeson was born in Washington, DC and has lived and worked in the area for most of his career. He was chairman of the Hotel Association of Washington, DC during the pandemic, during which he helped develop the tourism recovery plan adopted by the City Council in 2023. “DC is lucky to have such a concentration of biotech, education, research and museums. The city’s strong industries can be partners and advocates for meetings and events as we drive economic development and create a vibrant destination to live, work and visit,” said Atkeson. During DDC’s annual board meeting in May, the following board officers and new members were confirmed: CHAIRPERSON: Meade Atkeson, Royal Sonesta Hotels, area GM, Washington, DC VICE CHAIR: Julissa Marenco, assistant secretary for communications and external affairs and chief marketing officer, Smithsonian Institution TREASURER: Clarence Anthony, CEO and executive director, National League of Cities SECRETARY: Matt Felix, general manager, JW Marriott Washington, DC IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRPERSON: Stacy Smith, general manager, Hyatt Place DC/White House* New board members: Jason Berry, founder and principal, Knead Hospitality Diane Gross, owner, Cork Wine Bar & Market Tara Higgins, president, Hargrove – SVP, Commercial, Encore Ken Jarka, general manager, Washington Hilton Emeka Moneme, president, Capitol Riverfront BID Darien Wright, chief financial and operating officer, National Geographic
Ennismore welcomes ‘Our Habitas’ to its global collective of lifestyle brands
Ennismore, the fastest-growing lifestyle and leisure hospitality company, and Our Habitas, the sustainably forward hospitality brand, announced that they have entered a strategic partnership. Ennismore will take over the management and growth of Our Habitas, which will join Ennismore’s global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands. Founded by entrepreneur Oliver Ripley in 2016, Our Habitas’ mission is to create human connection and empower local communities through unique hospitality experiences worldwide. Our Habitas currently operates ten cultural-defining resorts across a range of breathtaking locations across four continents, including Tulum, Mexico; AlUla, Saudi Arabia; Atacama, Chile, and the Kalahari Desert in Namibia. The brand currently has multiple projects in the pipeline, including a significant number within Saudi Arabia and with further expansion plans into Asia. As a global pioneer in the experiential luxury hospitality category, Our Habitas seeks to redefine the concept of modern luxury, offering global destinations for a community of like-minded travellers seeking connection, inspiration and a better future. Underpinned by a commitment to providing exceptional experiences, each Our Habitas property is powered by its pillars: music, wellness, art, adventure, food, learning and giving back, whilst being seamlessly connected to its natural environment - this is what Our Habitas calls ‘Luxury for the Soul’. Our Habitas will benefit from Ennismore’s extensive experience within hospitality lifestyle brands, offering additional global growth potential and utilising its operational expertise. Through Ennismore, Our Habitas will also benefit from Accor’s global platforms. As Founder, Oliver Ripley will remain involved in overseeing the creative vision of the brand while contributing to its global growth. Over the years, Our Habitas has attracted significant global investors, including PIF, Starwood Capital and Barry Sternlicht, Maurice Salem and Travis Kalanick who have supported Our Habitas' mission to disrupt the hospitality industry. Sébastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO of Accor & Executive Chairman of Ennismore, commented: “Our Habitas has created a unique niche in luxury hospitality, offering stunning destinations to passionate travellers seeking a lifetime adventure, full of memorable moments and unexpected discoveries. Its crafted positioning will perfectly fit with our Ennismore collective and effortlessly match our lifestyle and tailor-made approach to hospitality. We are also thrilled to join forces alongside seasoned investors who are important and long-standing partners for Accor and Ennismore, and eager to accelerate Our Habitas’ growth in the coming years.” Oliver Ripley, Co-Founder & CEO and Maurice Salem, Chairman of Our Habitas, said: “We are excited to partner with Ennismore as we enter the next phase of our growth and our mission to continue to disrupt the hospitality industry. Ennismore’s entrepreneurial approach, global footprint, combined with their extensive operational expertise make them the ideal partner for Our Habitas to continue its trajectory as a global leader in experiential hospitality.” Sharan Pasricha, Founder & co-CEO and Gaurav Bhushan, co-CEO of Ennismore, said: “Lifestyle brands are rooted in the vision of their founder, and we are delighted to welcome Our Habitas, a globally renowned founder-built brand, to Ennismore. We look forward to working with Oliver Ripley to take this incredible, unique, and innovative brand he has built over the last ten years to exciting new destinations and markets, as well as provide our operational expertise and oversight. Our Habitas is rooted in creativity and purpose that will stand the test of time, and we look forward to cementing its reputation as an iconic global brand.
Dusit strengthens its development team to propel global hotel expansion
L-R: Pornpim Hiranpradit and Rami Massoud Dusit International, has strengthened its global development team with two key appointments to spearhead hotel development efforts for Dusit Hotels and Resorts across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. In the Middle East, Rami Massoud has joined the company as Vice President of Development (EMEA) based in Dusit’s regional office in Dubai. Fluent in Arabic, English, and French, Massoud is an Egyptian national with over 25 years of experience in hotel development, real estate investment, and asset management. During his career, he worked for hotel brands such as Marriott, Starwood, and Four Seasons and spearheaded projects for top developers including Dubai Holding, Power Holding, and Shuaa Capital across the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Most recently, he served as the Managing Director of Hotel Assets Acquisition Consultants. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management and advanced certification in Hotel Real Estate Investment & Asset Management from Cornell University. Rassoud is now responsible for the growth of Dusit’s unique portfolio of Dusit Hotels and Resorts across key existing and emerging destinations in the EMEA region. In Dusit’s home base of Thailand, meanwhile, Pornpim Hiranpradit has joined the company as Director of Development (Global) based in Bangkok, where she is responsible for spearheading Dusit’s development efforts across Asia-Pacific and supporting Dusit’s regional development offices worldwide. She brings extensive experience in real estate and hospitality, having worked for real estate brokerage and management firms in New York as well as in hotel operations in Thailand. Notably, she was part of the development team for One Bangkok, one of the largest mixed-use developments in Thailand, where she executed three hotels with over 750 rooms while working for Frasers Property Holdings. In their new roles, Massoud and Hiranpradit will work closely with Siradej Donavanik, Vice President – Development (Global), Dusit International, to drive sustainable global expansion of Dusit Hotels and Resorts and its various brands. “Dusit’s commitment to sustainable growth and uniquely delivering Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world resonates deeply with me,” said Hiranpradit. “I’m eager to leverage my experience to unlock exciting opportunities in Asia-Pacific and contribute to Dusit’s success in this dynamic region and beyond.” Massoud said, “Joining Dusit International is a remarkable opportunity to contribute to a brand with a rich heritage and a bright future. I am excited to help drive Dusit’s expansion in the EMEA region by identifying new growth opportunities and fostering relationships that will enable us to bring our distinctive Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to more guests around the world.” Dusit’s portfolio now includes 301 properties operating across 18 countries, including 57 properties operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and 244 luxury villas under Elite Havens, the leading provider of luxury villa rentals in Asia, which Dusit acquired in September 2018.
Amora Hotels & Resorts selects Sydney as Regional Hub to drive Asia Pacific Brand expansion
Amora Riverwalk Melbourne Amora Hotels & Resorts is positioning itself for a new phase of expansion in Asia Pacific as it prepares to introduce its unique style of customer-centric luxury hospitality to new destinations across the Pacific and Southeast Asia. This week, the group opened its inaugural corporate office in Sydney, which will spearhead a growth plan to double its portfolio from six to 12 hotels in five years. The establishment of the regional hub will be a launch pad for the fast-developing hotel group to leverage opportunities for acquisitions while driving strategy, brand, operations, finance and human resources. The new chapter of growth is being written by Earp Siriphatrawan, Amora’s owner and Director, who is assembling an experienced team to consolidate and expand the flourishing company. Ravi Chandran, who spent more than 20 years as a senior executive with Banyan Tree, helping engineer their growth from a small hospitality firm to a leading global player, has been brought in as an independent director to the board, to drive strategy and brand development. Amora Hotel Brisbane opened in Q1 2024 following an AUD 30 million (USD 20 million) transformation The corporate office will be led by Group Vice President of Operations Tamer Habib, a former Starwood executive who will be charged with ensuring the operational success of existing and newly acquired hospitality assets. “This is an exciting time for Amora Hotels & Resorts, as we embark on a new era of regional expansion in Asia Pacific,” said Siriphatrawan. “Our commitment is clear; we are investing in people and products, seeking fresh opportunities for acquisitions and looking forward with a bold vision. This is a fast-evolving industry and we understand the need to innovate to lead the independent hotel space.” The corporate office will take a holistic view of strategy, brand, operations and finance, driving a customer-centric approach and guest recognition programme, consolidating back-office procedures and evaluating acquisition opportunities, added Mr. Siriphatrawan. Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney Founded in 1997, Amora owns and operates six properties in Asia Pacific. In Australia, Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney and Amora Riverwalk Melbourne were joined by Amora Hotel Brisbane in Q1 2024, having undergone an AUD 30 million (USD 20m) transformation in the Queensland city’s CBD. In Thailand, the THB 500 million (USD 14m) renovation of Amora Beach Resort Phuket was completed in December 2023, joining Amora Neoluxe Hotel Bangkok and Amora Hotel Chiang Mai. With total visitor expenditure in Australia forecast to rise from a record high of AUD 170.3 billion in 2023 to AUD 223.3 billion in 2028 – 61% higher than pre-pandemic levels¹, this is an optimum time to invest in the country’s tourism sector. The growth of international arrivals is set to be driven by demand from key Asian source markets such as Thailand, Vietnam, India and the Philippines, which will naturally gravitate towards Amora’s style of customer-centric luxury hospitality. Amora Beach Resort Phuket opened in Q4 2023 following a USD14 million remodelling
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