The Boutique Search Firm
Heads Above the Rest - October 2025

The Newsletter of The Boutique Search Firm, a worldwide retained recruiting firm specializing in hospitality management.

Market update

• The government operations have been suspended so there are no official jobs numbers for the month in the United States.  
• We are seeing many companies utilize this time of year to upgrade their talent and strengthen their teams.
• The Boutique Search Firm earned recognition on Forbes’ 2025 list of Best Executive Search Firms, highlighting its excellence in talent acquisition and client service.
  • Forbes 2025 America's Best Executive Recruiting Firms List

 
Recent Appointments
 
­­North America​​

• Guntram Merl has been appointed as General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton. He has built a reputation for delivering exceptional guest experiences and cultivating high-performing, service-driven teams.
• Ben Carter has been appointed as Director of Wellness & Longevity at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village. He recognized as one of the most comprehensive and innovative wellness destinations in the Four Seasons portfolio.
• Joshua Sloser named Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Choice Hotels International, Inc. He will develop and implement the company's commercial strategy, overseeing the digital channels.
• Anthony Beach has been appointed as General Manager at Thompson Hotel Chicago, by Hyatt. His career includes successful hotel openings, brand repositionings, and award-winning management experience in key markets.
• Lindsay Mistretta named Area Director of Sales & Marketing at Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa, and Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach. She has held sales leadership roles in Boston, New York, and San Diego.
• Tamer Kelliny joined Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa, and Hilton Garden Inn as Area Director of Revenue Management. He brings deep expertise in revenue management, sales, and operations across the U.S., Middle East, and Europe.
• Dennis Riley has been appointed as Director of Food & Beverage at Mission Resort + Club. He brings a proven record of excellence in operations, guest service, and team leadership to the storied resort.
• Mariana Hauri named Senior sales manager of groups at Thompson Miami Beach. She joins the hotel's opening team with a remit to secure group and corporate events and to help position the property as a premier destination for sophisticated gatherings.
• Evan Moric named SVP of Development at PM Hotel Group. He will help lead the company's continued growth through third-party management contracts and strategic partnerships with owners.
• Gary Obligacion has been appointed as General Manager at El Encanto. He brings a deep-rooted passion for service, a track record of operational excellence, and a personal connection to California to his new role.
• Jason Perkins named General Manager at Aloft and Element Tampa Midtown. He will oversee all aspects of the property's operations, from driving guest satisfaction and financial performance to leading teams.
• Jason Druso has been appointed as Regional Vice President at White Lodging. He joins the company's deep operations leadership team and will oversee a portfolio of White Lodging hotels and restaurants across the country.
• Lisa Cox has been appointed as General Counsel at Concord Hospitality. She joins Concord Hospitality from Camping World Holdings, Inc., where she served as Vice President- Associate General Counsel, Real Estate & Acquisitions. 
• Katherine Wylie named Director of Finance and Accounting at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort & Residences. She brings a distinguished background in hospitality finance and executive leadership across luxury properties.
• Ziya Turgut named Food & Beverage Director at M Social Hotel Times Square. He will oversee all dining operations, spearhead menu development, and continue to position Beast & Butterflies as a culinary and social destination in the heart of Manhattan.
• Jackson Chase named Director of Asset Management & Investments at The Neighborhood Hotel. He brings six years of experience in real estate finance, operations, and strategic analysis. 
• Brent Balika has been appointed as Executive Chef at Four Seasons Hotel. He will lead the hotel-wide culinary program, offering a fresh take on the luxury food and beverage service for which Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is renowned.
• Dane Gorup has been appointed as General Manager at Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.  He has worked with the Hilton brand for 30 years, having built his career within Hilton's Southern California portfolio. 
• Tom Roman has been appointed as Vice President of Food & Beverage at Charlestowne Hotels. He brings more than 20 years of leadership experience shaping food and beverage programs for independent hotels and lifestyle brands to his new role.
• Jeff Borman named Global Head of Sales, Revenue & Distribution at Virgin Hotels Collection. He will lead sales, revenue management, and distribution strategy across the full Virgin Hotels Collection portfolio.
• David Sobek has been appointed as Director of Sales and Marketing at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay.  He will oversee all sales and marketing strategies for the 261-room luxury coastal retreat perched atop a scenic bluff along Northern California's pristine coastline.
• Matthew Grauso joined Remington Hospitality as Vice President of Operations – Caribbean. He brings nearly three decades of experience in resort and luxury hotel operations.
• Benito Benitez has been promoted as Vice President of Operations – Latin America at Remington Hospitality. He has held senior operational roles across a variety of branded and independent properties throughout the CALA region.
• Jason Pirock has been appointed as Vice President Global Brand Marketing at Outrigger Hospitality Group. He will drive global brand strategy and lead the development of media and marketing initiatives.
• Thorsten Leighty has been appointed as Director of Food & Beverage at New Orleans Marriott. He will oversee all culinary and beverage operations at the iconic property located in the heart of the French Quarter.
• Gayle Guyse has been appointed as General Manager at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. She brings unmatched leadership and dedication to the new Fort Lauderdale property with over 25 years of sales, marketing and operational excellence at Omni.
• David Davila has been appointed as Director of Rooms at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. He brings 13 years of deep understanding of guest service and operations, with 11 years dedicated to the renowned The Omni Grove Park Inn.
• Ted Cushman has been appointed as Director of Food & Beverage at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel.  He brings refined wine expertise, innovative beverage programming, and fine-dining experience in Michelin-rated restaurants and James Beard Award-recognized venues.
• Howard Esquirol has been appointed as Director of Finance at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. He returns to the brand with a keen financial acumen to support the Fort Lauderdale team with 35 years in hospitality and a long history across Omni properties.
• Pawel Dunin-Majchrowski named Director of Engineering at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. He brings nearly 40 years of hospitality experience, having been part of multiple hotel openings and major renovations, including the recent Omni Houston re-opening.
• Sara Rojas Isaza has been appointed as Director of Human Resources at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. He brings over 15 years of HR experience and a strong commitment to cultivating Omni's culture of excellence.
• Andrew Stradtner has been appointed as Director of Operations at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. She brings over 15 years of hospitality experience and leadership, rising through the ranks to his most recent role as Area Director of Rooms at Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa. 
• Aaron Weegar named Director of Sales & Marketing at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. She is a seasoned sales leader with over 20 years in high-profile roles at luxury resorts, including the Diplomat Beach Resort and Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. 
• Latara Walker has been appointed as Complex Director of Revenue Management at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. She has been with Omni since 2007, driving record-breaking revenue strategies across multiple properties.
• Steve Savastano has been appointed as Director of Food and Beverage at Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa. He brings a wealth of deep industry expertise and a proven track record in food and beverage operations to the team.
• Jim Hutchinson III has been appointed as General Manager at Hutton Brickyards Riverfront Hotel + Venue in Kingston. He brings more than 20 years of senior hospitality experience, most recently as Regional Performance Manager at Visions Hotels.
• Glen Dakota Reign named Director of Operations at Hutton Brickyards Riverfront Hotel + Venue in Kingston. He brings decades of hospitality and operations experience, aligned by a commitment to service excellence, team growth, and long-term success.
• Aaron Hoefen has been appointed as Dual Hotel Manager at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street and Tampa Marriott Water Street. He brings more than 26 years of Marriott hospitality experience to his new role.
• Didier Quintana named General Manager at Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina. He has over a decade of hospitality leadership experience managing properties across New Jersey, Illinois and Florida, including Hilton West Palm Beach.
• Tim Brooke-Webb has been appointed as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Forbes Travel Guide. He is a seasoned leader with nearly two decades of experience in the international hospitality industry. 
• Casie Squires has been appointed as Director of Sales at Pure Wellness. She brings over six years of hospitality and travel industry sales experience to her new position.
• Rodahl Leong-Lyons has been appointed as Area Director of Sales & Marketing at PM Hotel Group. She will oversee sales, marketing, and revenue strategy for the company's expanding presence across the islands.
• Steve Savastano has been appointed as Director of Food & Beverage at Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa. He brings a wealth of deep industry expertise and a proven track record in food and beverage operations to the team.
• Jorge Madrigal named General Manager at Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort. He will oversee all aspects of the resort's operations, including guest services, staff management and strategic planning.
• Kathleen Hollis has been appointed Chief Growth Officer at First Hospitality. She will lead and manage the business development team and pursue third-party hotel management contracts.
• Al M. Soto has been appointed as Executive Chef at Marriott Hartford Downtown. He is bringing with him more than three decades of diverse culinary leadership across prestigious institutions, restaurants, and global kitchens.
• Steve Sickel named Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at IHG Owners Association. He will remain steadfast in upholding the Association's mission to strengthen the returns on members' investments in IHG hotels and will lead the Association's advice and counsel to IHG.
• Kimberly Vassell-Jacob has been appointed as Vice President of Operations at HIA Software, a product of Hotel Investor Apps, Inc. She will lead the Onboarding and Support teams to ensure an optimal customer experience.
• Ayesha Molino has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at MGM Resorts International. She is currently President and COO of ARIA and Vdara, responsible for all aspects of operations at two of Las Vegas' most iconic luxury brands.
• Gary Fritz named Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) and President of MGM Digital at MGM Resorts International. He has a long history of leading multi-national companies on global strategy and expansion plans including Expedia and McKinsey & Company.
• Billy Gilchrist has been appointed as Senior Vice President, Originations at Peachtree Group. He brings more than a decade of leadership experience in finance, real estate and hospitality to Peachtree.
• William Panaretos named Hotel Manager at Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences.  He has a proven track record of leadership in hotel operations, food and beverage, and guest services.
• Amir Nematipour has been appointed as Resort Manager at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. He brings nearly a decade of Four Seasons experience and a lifelong passion for hospitality to his new role.
• Stephane Lacroix named General Manager at Hotel Jerome. He is celebrated for his operational expertise, passion for food and beverage and ability to steward iconic properties into new eras of excellence.
• Ashwin Mathur has been promoted as General Manager at Shangri-La Toronto. He brings a wealth of expertise, a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences, and a proven track record of operational excellence
• Bobby Barnes named Managing Director at Innisbrook Resort. He has more than three decades of experience in the hospitality industry.
• Christopher Saputo has been appointed as General Manager at The Sun Rose West Hollywood. He will oversee all aspects of the property's operations, including its 149 guestrooms and 37 suites, signature spa, rooftop restaurant and pool.
• Ujjawal Khatkar has been appointed as Food & Beverage Director at Four Seasons Resort Lanai. He will be overseeing all food and beverage operations for the Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond Hawaiian resort, including the newly designed Osteria Mozza Lanai.
• Michelle Hacker named General Manager at La Monique.  Her leadership marks the beginning of a new, transformative chapter for Ocean a Santa Monica, launching a bold era of innovation and elevated fine dining at the new onsite restaurant, La Monique.
• Juan Flores has been appointed as General Manager at Albert Hotel. His 27-year career in hospitality has been marked by his commitment to operational excellence and team development. 
• Ron Hassani named General Manager at Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound. He brings his passion for delivering family-style guest experiences and fostering a team-centric workplace culture to his new role as general manager. 
• Jordan Austin-Harris has been appointed as General Manager at Great Wolf Lodge Webster. She Bringing over 25 years of expertise in the hospitality industry, Jordan has held key roles at Aimbridge, Evolution, and Westmont Hospitality Groups.
• Preston Nguyen named Executive Chef at Caravan Court, by Valencia Hotel Collection. He is a proud ambassador for Arlington, using his talent to champion local initiatives and support charitable causes, including the Help & Hope Gala.
• McClinton Heil has been appointed Area Managing Director at Clayton Hotel & Members Club and Halcyon Hotel Cherry Creek. He has a deep understanding of the neighborhood and its guests.
• Colter Hocking has been appointed as General Manager at Clayton Hotel & Members Club. He brings more than 15 years of hospitality leadership across operations, food and beverage, and guest experience.
• Tom Kermabon has been appointed as General Manager at Carter Hospitality Group. He oversees all resort and winery operations for both properties, guiding a team of more than 300 employees and ensuring the continued delivery of exceptional guest experiences.

Europe​

• Jana Warken has been appointed as HR Director at B&B Hotels. She is tasked with driving an agile, growth-oriented HR strategy that blends employer branding, talent development, and operational excellence.
• Deniel Frey has been appointed as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at B&B Hotels. He brings strong expertise in revenue strategy and data-driven decision-making.
• Karsten Tremmel has been appointed as Chief Information Officer (CIO) at B&B Hotels. His mandate at B&B HOTELS CNE will focus on advancing the group's digital ecosystem and aligning IT with future business and growth objectives.
• Phil Andreopoulos named Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at YOTEL Limited. He joins YOTEL following a distinguished career at Marriott International, where he held multiple senior leadership roles across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
• Neil Armstrong has been appointed as Executive Chef at Crafted at Powdermills. He brings over 30 years of experience, including senior roles at Edwardian Hotels in London and Nelson Hotels & Inns in Cheshire.
• Conor Sheehan has been appointed as Head of Food & Beverage at Crafted at Powdermills. He brings a wealth of hospitality experience, having held General Manager roles at Tillingham Wines, Kettner's Townhouse (Soho House & Co), Bistrotheque, and The Gallivant.
• Jochem Meijerink has been appointed as Hotel Manager at Claridge’s. He is highly experienced in the operation of luxury hotels and brings a wealth of experience to his new role at Claridge's.
• Björn Wild has been appointed as General Manager at Finca Banyols, Vignette Collection (IHG). He brings over 15 years of leadership experience in luxury hospitality and estate management.
• Frank Veenstra named Chief Development Officer at Kempinski Hotels. He will take charge of shaping Kempinski's global development strategy, balancing the heritage of Europe's oldest luxury hotel brand.
• Ray Goertz has been appointed as Regional General Manager, UK at TFE Hotels Europe. He brings more than 28 years of senior leadership experience across luxury, lifestyle, and independent hotels, with a proven track record of repositioning landmark properties. 
• Guillermo Burgers Díaz named Director of Operations at easyHotel Spain. He brings valuable expertise to the role with over 20 years of experience in hotel operations, real estate asset management, and leadership.
• Terii Dunne has been appointed as Director of Development at Hilton UK & Ireland. She brings over 20 years' industry experience to the role, joining from Best Western hotel and resorts, where she was director of business development for six years.
• Julien Bardet joined General Manager at Mandarin Oriental Lutetia. He is dedicated to elevating the Palace's international standing by blending ultra-luxury with French excellence and a deep connection to its Left Bank setting.
• Falk Bartels has been appointed as General Manager at The Posthouse Berlin Potsdamer Platz – Leonardo Limited Edition. He is an accomplished hotelier who brings over 30 years of experience to the table.
• Yvonne op de Hipt has been promoted as Hotel Manager at NYX Hotel Berlin Köpenick. Her energy, organisational talent and people skills make her the ideal appointment for the lifestyle concept of NYX Hotels.
• Nino Rosenlund has been appointed as Multi-Property Manager at Leonardo Hotels Hanover and Wolfsburg. He can look back on more than 30 years of experience in the international hotel business and has spent many years at top hotels right across Europe.
• Michael Rosin has been appointed as General Manager at NYX Hotel Erfurt. He has 35 years in the hotel business under his belt.
• Sara Roure named Head of EMEA Capital Formation at KSL Capital Partners EMEA. She will lead KSL's capital formation strategy across Europe and the Middle East, supporting the continued expansion of KSL's institutional investor base.
• Christophe Laure has been appointed as Head of Luxury & Lifestyle Division at IHG France. He brings over 33 years of experience with IHG Hotels & Resorts.
• Lauren Sargent has been appointed Group HR Director at RBH (former Redefine|BDL Hotels). She brings over 11 years of hospitality and HR experience to the role.  

Asia

• Harsh Champawat has been appointed as Hotel Manager at Fairmont Udaipur Palace. He brings to the role a rare blend of operational mastery, strategic foresight, and a passion for elevating the art of luxury hospitality.
• Nishanth Vishwanath named Multi-Property General Manager at The St. Regis Mumbai and Courtyard by Marriott Agra he will spearhead The St. Regis Mumbai and Courtyard by Marriott Agra's vision to elevate guest experiences and drive continued success.
• Sumin Martin has been appointed Director of Sales at Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield. He brings with him a proven track record in driving business growth, building client relationships, and mentoring high-performing sales teams.
• Nilesh Kumar has been appointed as Food & Beverage Manager at Grand Mercure Bangalore. He brings a proven track record of driving operational excellence, enhancing guest satisfaction, and leading high-performing teams.
• Allen Howden has been appointed as General Manager at The Westin Yokohama. He brings a global perspective and proven leadership to his new role with more than 25 years of international hospitality experience spanning Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America.
• Chuleekorn Mungsunti has been appointed as General Manager at Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn. She brings over 15 years of leadership experience in Thailand's hospitality industry.
• Paul Jackson has been appointed General Manager at Capella Singapore. His background covers key markets including Australia, Hong Kong, South Korea, Thailand, and China.
• Andy Lio has been appointed as General Manager at Capella. He joined Capella's roster of strengthened leadership following his appointment as General Manager of Capella at Galaxy Macau earlier this year.
• Roman Angulo has been appointed as General Manager at Patina Tianjin. He brings over 20 years of international hospitality experience specialising in hotel management across leading brands.
• Rohan Malwankar has been appointed Executive Chef at W Marriott Hotel. He is celebrated for his ingredient-led philosophy, modern sensibilities, and ability to craft dining experiences that resonate with both authenticity and innovation.
• Jaideep Dang named Head of Development, South West Asia at IHG Hotels & Resorts. He will be responsible for driving IHG's growth strategy across the region and will report directly to Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts.
• Peter Minatsis has been appointed as General Manager at Hannah St. Hotel Melbourne. He is a highly experienced hotelier whose career spans more than two decades across Australia, Fiji, and Canada.
• Sasha Tyas has been appointed as General Manager at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas. She brings a wealth of cultural understanding, operational excellence, and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences with over 25 years of international experience. 
• Chanin Donavanik has been appointed as Group CEO at Dusitb International. He will oversee the transition and ensure the continuity of Dusit's policies and management across all dimensions.
• Leanne Reddie has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer (CMO) at Global Asset Solutions. She has 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including senior roles with Emirates Airlines, Jumeirah Group, and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. 
• Jake Guilfoyle has been appointed as General Manager at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia. He is known for his hands-on leadership approach, commercial acumen, and his deep passion for developing the next generation of hospitality talent.
• Siddhartha Nath named Multi-Property Senior Manager – Marketing & Communications at The Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Suites. He brings a wealth of expertise from leading hospitality brands including The Oberoi Group, Marriott International, and Hyatt. 
• Lakshmi Nandagopal named Director of Human Resources at Hyatt Regency. Her career journey is a testament to her passion for people development and her ability to align HR strategies with business goals. 
• Mohit Singh has been appointed as Director of Operations at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida. He is known for his ability to reimagine guest experiences, integrate digital innovations into operations, and lead high-performing teams.
• Hani Daher has been appointed as Vice President Operations at Millennium Hotels & Resorts. His career has included key roles with IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Starwood, Radisson Hotel Group, Stamford Hotels and Resorts and Ramada Resort Port Vila.
• Sangram Raje has been appointed as Director of Sales at The Ritz-Carlton. He has been an integral member of the Sales team and has played a significant role in driving the sales function and contributing to the hotel's growing reputation as a luxury destination in Pune.
• Michael Parker named General Manager at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort. He brings over 20 years of leadership experience in luxury hospitality to his new role in Bangkok, including high-profile positions across the UK, China, Cambodia, and the Maldives. 
• Karl Hudson has been appointed as General Manager at JW Marriott. He brings global leadership expertise with strategic vision and operational rigour to one of Singapore's most design-forward hotels.
• Christian Gradnitzer has been appointed as Group Director of Food & Beverage at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. He brings 30 years of international leadership experience and a reputation for shaping distinctive dining concepts that enhance brand equity.
• Kandé Camara named Chief of Staff and Group Director of Sustainability at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. She brings a career that spans finance, luxury and hospitality, alongside senior sustainability roles at Kerzner International and Parfums Christian Dior.
• Prajeesh Nair has been promoted as Associate Director of Rooms at Hyatt Regency. He brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to his new position with over two decades of experience in hospitality operations and an exceptional track record in guest services.
• Julien Munoz has been appointed as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited (Peninsula). He will oversee the group's commercial and marketing teams and will report directly to Benjamin Vuchot, Chief Executive Officer.
• Emlyn Brown has been appointed as Group Director of Spa, Leisure and Wellness at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. He joins as Group Director of Spa, Leisure and Wellness, with more than 25 years of international expertise in wellness innovation. 
• Matthew Lloyd named Vice President Marketing Technology & CRM at Global Hotel Alliance (GHA). He will take on a broader leadership role in shaping departmental culture, championing cross-functional collaboration, mentoring emerging talent.
• Steve Ayalo has been appointed as Vice President IT Governance, Risk & Compliance at Global Hotel Alliance (GHA). He will oversee ISO certification efforts, continue to drive GHA's enterprise IT strategy, and lead the company's information security risk management function.
• Shivram Verma has been appointed as Food & Beverage Manager at Hilton Bangalore Embassy Golflinks. He has built a strong record of driving operational excellence, improving guest satisfaction, and delivering revenue growth.
• Stephan Rohrer has been appointed as General Manager at JATI. He will lead JATI as it enters its first full high season with over 20 years of experience in hospitality.

­­
Central & South America​

• Vilma Campos has been appointed as Director of Sales & Marketing at Banyan Tree Mayakoba. She has built her career on leading with integrity and cultivating high-performing team.
• Ruthline Theysen has been appointed as Complex Director of Food & Beverage at Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. He brings an impressive blend of operational and human resources experience.
• Rafael Romero named Director of Sales and Marketing at Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort. He will drive the resort's commercial strategy, further positioning Hilton Vallarta Riviera as a benchmark of innovation and excellence along the Bay of Banderas.

­­Caribbean​

• Felix Pina has been promoted to General Manager at Malliouhana. He has been instrumental in growing Malliouhana's reputation as a premier luxury destination in the Caribbean for the past two years in his previous role of Resort Manager.
• Chris Watson has been appointed as Director of Sales & Marketing at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar. He will manage all key market segments for the property-including group, transient, and catering sales.
• Dawn Page has been appointed as Spa Director at Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Resort & Spa. She will lead the spa's pre-opening development and oversee all day-to-day operations.
• Chevaz Chambers has been appointed as Vice President and General Manager at Harborside Resort. His journey in hospitality began in the food and beverage department at Super Clubs Breezes, where his talent quickly propelled him to Hotel Assistant Manager.
• Avi Phookan has been appointed as General Manager at Four Seasons Resort Nevis. He brings a dynamic leadership style, a deep passion for guest experience, and a strong focus on environmental and community stewardship to his new role in Nevis.
• Lourdes Sanchez has been appointed as Marketing Manager at The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa. She brings over seven years of hospitality marketing experience to The Westin Grand Cayman. 

Middle East​

• Azzah Al Ghamdi has been appointed as Public Relations and Communications Manager at Raffles Jeddah. She will lead the hotel's communications strategy and shape its market presence.
• Abdullah Al Atari has been appointed as Director of Sales & Marketing at The Ned Doha. He brings an extensive background in sales strategy, brand positioning, and marketing innovation.
• Raja Ben Naceur named Director of Marketing & Communications at The Ned Doha. She has worked with leading luxury hospitality brands and is recognised for her ability to build impactful strategies shaped by her passion for travel and dining.
• Naureen Youssef has been appointed as Director of Marketing at Bab Al Qasr Hotel. She is recognised for her ability to craft campaigns that resonate across cultures, combining creativity with strategic execution.
• Erika Anggreini named Cluster Assistant Director of Marketing at InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences. She will play a key role in driving lifestyle programming and community engagement initiatives to connect with both residents and global travellers. 
• Suresh Ferdinandusz has been appointed as Director of Operations at Anantara World Islands Resort. He brings a blend of operational acumen and a passion for excellence to his new role at the helm of the resort's day-to-day experience.
• Audra Arul has been appointed as Director of Sales & Distribution at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort. She brings more than 20 years of international luxury hospitality expertise across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
• Fatma Kurt has been appointed as Director of Marketing at The St. Regis. Her contributions to the industry have earned her a spot on the Hotelier Middle East Power List for four consecutive years and the title of Top Performer by Marriott International EMEA in 2023.
• Karim El Berkchi has been promoted as Hotel Manager at Kempinski Hotel. He now steps into this new role, bringing with him more than two decades of experience in the luxury hospitality industry.
• Kemal Bayik has been appointed as General Manager at Mondrian Doha. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Mondrian Doha as it continues to strengthen its position as one of Qatar's most distinctive luxury lifestyle destinations.
• Ahmad Shaban Fernandez has been appointed Cluster General Manager at NH Collection Dubai The Palm and Dukes The Palm Dubai Hotel. He brings with him over 20 years of international hospitality experience.
• Ajai Nair named Cluster Director of Finance at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island and Courtyard by Marriott World Trade Centre. He will be responsible for overseeing finance functions across both properties.
• Ziya Cikrikci has been appointed as Executive Chef at Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara. He leads a team serving global delicacies across seven dining venues, including three signature restaurants and a collection of exclusive dining concepts.
• Juan Manuel Ovalles Urbina named Restaurant Manager for Beef Bistro and Bebemos at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. He brings a wealth of expertise in restaurant pre-openings, operations, and enhancing the guest experience.
• Safwan Abu Risheh has been appointed as General Manager at Raffles. He brings with him over 25 years of international experience in the luxury hospitality sector, having held senior leadership roles across the Middle East, Europe, North America, and Mexico. 
• Neha Rustagi named Assistant Marketing Manager at Crowne Plaza Muscat Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre. She will be leading the hotel's marketing and communications function.
• Meltem Erbay has been appointed as Director of Operations at DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa. She is eager to further elevate the resort's presence in the market, leveraging its dynamic lifestyle, dining, and wellness offerings.
• ​Hagop Tchaparian has been appointed as Hotel Manager at Marriott Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi and Marriott Executive Apartments. He brings over 20 years of hospitality experience in the Middle East, with a strong background in sales, marketing, and commercial leadership.

Africa​​

• Xander Labuschagne named General Manager of Hospitality at Jumeirah Thanda Safari. He brings more than two decades of diverse hospitality experience, with a career spanning humanitarian work, luxury safari lodges, residences and international operations.