Well situated in Auckland, Hotel Indigo Auckland, an IHG Hotel provides air-conditioned rooms, a fitness center and a restaurant. In a captivating blend of past and present, Hotel Indigo Auckland retains its historic charm of its original façade, once home to “The Motor House” of Dexter and Crozier. This harmony introduces a new neighbourhood experience, where rich history blends seamlessly with modern convenience and comfort.
Alice Scottis appointed as the hotel's Director of Sales and Marketing. Alice brings a wealth of experience from her most recent role as Senior Project Manager of Event Travel for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™. Her expertise spans Corporate, Leisure, and Event Services, honed through previous roles at Corporate Traveller, Flight Centre, and CTM.
Pyramid Global Hospitality and Palm House Hospitality are thrilled to announce the appointment of Matthew Strawn as the new General Manager of the iconic Flamingo Resort & Spa in Northern California’s Sonoma Wine Country. With over 20 years of leadership experience in the hospitality industry, Strawn brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for exceptional guest service.
Strawn joined the Flamingo Resort & Spa earlier this year as Assistant General Manager after serving as the General Manager at the 228 all-suites Holiday Inn & Suites Phoenix Airport North. He also held the role of Corporate Director of Rooms for Heavlin Management Company, where he oversaw the operations, financial performance, and development of all Rooms Division locations at Heavlin-managed properties. With specialized experience managing Hilton, Marriott, and IHG-branded hotels, Strawn has built a distinguished career in the hospitality industry.
Matthew grew up loving to travel, and on long family road trips, he’d study up on hotels by reading the AAA guidebook. This early passion for hospitality laid the foundation for his successful career in the industry. He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from Collins College of Hospitality Management, California Polytechnic University, Pomona, California.
The team at the Flamingo Resort & Spa is very excited for Matthew’s promotion to General Manager and look forward to a new chapter under his guidance, positivity, wealth of experience, and leadership. “We are thrilled for Matthew to be named General Manager of the Flamingo Resort & Spa,” said Benson Wang, CEO of Palm House Hospitality. “His proven leadership and deep understanding of hospitality will be invaluable as we continue to elevate our guest experience and strengthen our position as a premier destination.”
In his new role, Strawn will oversee all aspects of the resort’s operations, including guest services, wellness programs, and event management. He is dedicated to enhancing the resort’s signature offerings while fostering a culture of service excellence among staff.
“I am honored to be chosen to lead the Flamingo Resort & Spa and shepherd its legacy into the next chapter,” said Strawn. “This iconic property has a rich history and holds many fond memories for the current and former residents of Santa Rosa. I look forward to working with the talented staff to continue to create memorable experiences for all of our guests.”
Built in 1957, the Flamingo Resort & Spa is the legendary oasis in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country that was historically a place to mingle and leave the pressures of everyday life behind while experiencing a different side of California. Located in the heart of Santa Rosa, it was designed by Las Vegas architect Homer Rissman for developer Hugh Codding. In its heyday, the hotel drew celebrities and wealthy world travelers to its oversized pool and courtyard. Far enough from Hollywood but close enough for an impromptu escape, The Flamingo was there to host those drawn to the privacy and beauty of Sonoma, and serve bottomless martinis along the way. The City of Santa Rosa declared the Flamingo a historical landmark in 1996, and the resort’s original hot-pink neon sign still stands out front, a beacon among the redwoods.
The resort’s recent renovations include the building’s sweeping art deco entryway which has been adorned with striking angles and warm wood; a new lobby accented with a mix of retro and contemporary artwork; and all 170 guest rooms including 14 spacious suites have been remodeled with an emphasis on natural light and a serene palette. The fully-renovated, cutting-edge fitness center and spa are designed to revitalize the senses and promote wellness, while the tennis & pickleball courts, serene lap pool, yoga studio, and brand-new cycle studio encourage guests to stay motivated and moving. The on-site dining destination, Lazeaway Club, serves up inspired Cal-Pacific cuisine led by Executive Chef Chris Ricketts; and Wild Bird is available on the patio for poolside dining.
For any media inquiries please contact Caitlin Sandberg of Poppyseed PR. Caitlin@PoppyseedPR.com.
Kamat Hotels India Ltd is proud to announce the promotion of Mr. Lalan Kumar from Assistant Head of Sales to Head of Sales, RSO.
With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Lalan Kumar has consistently proven exceptional leadership, he understands the sales strategies and is passionate about helping the business grow. His journey began with significant achievements at Fort Jadhavgadh, where he rose through multiple roles, eventually becoming the Head of Sales in 2015. During his tenure, he successfully expanded the client base, introduced innovative promotional activities, and exceeded revenue targets year after year.
Lalan joined The Orchid Hotel Pune in 2021 as Senior Sales Manager and quickly advanced to Associate Head of Sales in 2023. In these roles, he played a pivotal part in refining sales strategies, mentoring a high-performing team, and building strong client relationships. His contributions have consistently driven exceptional results, earning him accolades such as the Game Changer of the Year Award (2022-23) for the highest individual revenue contribution across the company’s portfolio.
Reflecting on his promotion, Lalan shared, “I am honored to take on this new role and grateful for the trust placed in me by the leadership team. I look forward to continuing my journey with Kamat Hotels India, building on our legacy, and achieving new milestones together.”
Kamat Hotels India Ltd is confident that under Lalan’s leadership, the sales division will reach new heights, driving both growth and innovation.
Shangri-La Eros New Delhi proudly announces the appointment of Vikram Sood as Director of Rooms. With over 20 years of experience in hospitality, Vikram brings a strong commitment to enhancing guest experiences and improving operations.
Vikram Sood's career reflects his dedication to hospitality, with experience at renowned international hotels and in key roles. A distinguished graduate with a Three-Year Diploma in Hotel Management from the Institute of Hotel Management and a Degree in Humanities from Delhi University, he has curated an impressive career trajectory across iconic properties. His remarkable professional journey includes leadership roles at Fairmont Maldives, Shangri-La Hotel Colombo and multiple strategic positions at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, where he is now rejoining the hotel's leadership team, having been an integral consistent part of the family.
His exceptional ability to develop strategic operational frameworks, coupled with his keen insight into guest experience optimization, has consistently resulted in elevated service standards and organizational excellence. Vikram's comprehensive exposure across international luxury properties has positioned him as a strategic leader with a holistic approach to hospitality management.
As Director of Rooms at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, Vikram will spearhead comprehensive rooms division management, encompassing guest services, operational excellence, and team performance. He is dedicated to refining service protocols, implementing cutting-edge guest experience innovations, and maintaining the highest standards of operational precision.
His strategic leadership and deep understanding of luxury hospitality are expected to redefine the hotel's operational standards and create unprecedented guest experiences, leveraging his rich history with the Shangri-La brand.