Recent leadership changes in the hospitality and airline sectors in the Middle East reflect new experience and fresh perspectives. From new leadership to internal promotions, here is the latest in appointment news.
New President Announced for Atlantis Resorts
Atlantis Resorts has named Paul Baker as its new president. Previously president of Macau’s Grand Lisboa Palace, a $5 billion resort with close to 1,900 rooms, 300 game tables and 1,150 slot machines, he was also executive vice president of Wynn Macau, and five years as vice president of Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
This is a timely appointment when hotels in the UAE are reviewing newly released gaming regulations. With nearly two decades of experience in the casino and hospitality industry, Baker will oversee the operations and development of Atlantis Resorts’ flagship locations in Dubai.
Top Dubai hotel resort names new Cluster General Manager
Destination Mina Seyahi has appointed Ugur Lee Kanbur as the new Cluster General Manager. Kanbur brings 35 years of operational and management experience with Marriott International across Asia, including roles in China, Singapore, and Malaysia.
In his new role, he will oversee the operations and customer experience at three resorts: W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, and The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina. Kanbur aims to enhance guest satisfaction and foster a thriving workplace culture. This is his first role in the Middle East as he previously spent 16 years in China working as general manager of the W Suzhou.
New team changes at Minor Hotels
Minor Hotels has appointed a new cluster team to enhance operations and guest experiences at Avani+ Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites and La Suite Dubai Hotel & Apartments. Spearheaded by Cluster General Manager Georges Farhat, who brings over 26 years of experience in hospitality management, the team aims to drive business growth and elevate guest offerings. This move happens as La Suite Dubai is undergoing a full renovation to become NH Collection La Suite Dubai.
The leadership team includes Azam Chiragh as Cluster Director of People & Culture, with 17 years of experience, Christine Khachatryan as Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing, with 24 years of experience, Elena Mukhanova as Cluster Director of Revenue, Jay Valeriano as Cluster IT Manager, and Tejpal Singh as Cluster Director of Engineering. Their combined expertise will ensure innovative changes and sustained success for both properties.
Internal promotions at Rixos Premium
Rixos Premium Dubai has promoted three key employees to managerial roles. Zeliha Kaplan is now heading revenue operations, bringing over 20 years of experience within the Rixos family. Dipu Pillai has been promoted to Maintenance Manager, leveraging his expertise since joining in 2016. Salman Khan, with 13 years in hospitality management, is now leading front office operations.
These promotions reflect their dedication and significant contributions to the hotel’s success, as noted by General Manager Turgay Erdogan. These changes are expected to enhance guest experiences and drive operational excellence at Rixos Premium Dubai.
International business president changes at TBO
Global travel distribution platform, TBO.com has appointed Gerardo Del Río as President of its international business to drive global growth. With over 20 years of experience in hospitality, travel, and consulting, Del Río brings extensive global management and business development expertise.
His career spans the Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific, providing him with valuable multi-cultural insights. Del Río has worked with Melia Hotels, Hotelbeds, and DidaTravel. TBO co-founder Gaurav Bhatnagar praised his alignment with TBO’s vision for international expansion. Del Río aims to foster innovation, build strategic partnerships, and enhance TBO’s global footprint.
New GM for India-Middle East at Air France-KLM
Air France-KLM has appointed Stefan Gumuseli as the new General Manager for the India-Middle East team, effective 1 August, 2024. Based in Dubai, Gumuseli will oversee passenger business in diverse regions including India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Egypt.
With over 20 years of experience at KLM, he has held significant roles in markets like Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Nigeria. Previously, he was Director of Global Corporate Sales and General Manager in various regions. Gumuseli aims to strengthen Air France-KLM’s regional presence, focusing on customer proximity, sustainability, and organisational attractiveness.
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