APPOINTMENTS: Matthew Maynard, the new GM at Nikki Beach Dubai

Ludo de Jong has taken on the role of General Manager at Anantara The Marker Dublin, with a mission to further establish the hotel as the go-to destination for both social and business gatherings in the revitalized Docklands area, known for its concentration of tech and finance companies, stylish dining spots, and top-tier theaters. A seasoned hospitality professional, De Jong has an impressive track record of leading high-profile hotel projects, including rebranding efforts, pre-openings, and major renovations. His leadership has consistently driven his hotels to the forefront of the market, fueled by a deep commitment to inspiring his teams to create memorable guest experiences. De Jong’s passion for the culinary arts has been instrumental in the creation and launch of several highly regarded dining venues, including Michelin-starred establishments. With over 20 years of experience at the pinnacle of The Netherlands’ luxury hospitality sector, De Jong joins Anantara The Marker Dublin after serving as Cluster General Manager at NH Collection Barbizon Palace Amsterdam and Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam. Before this, he successfully launched NH Collection Eindhoven Centre and held the position of Assistant Hotel Director at the former NH Collection Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Earlier in his career, De Jong contributed his expertise as a member of Marriott International’s event management advisory board while working in a senior food and beverage and events role at Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel.

MGM Resorts has appointed Keith Barr, former CEO of IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), to the company's Board of Directors. Barr becomes the 12th member of the board. “Barr is a globally recognized leader in the hospitality industry, with more than 30 years of experience,” says MGM. He served as the CEO of IHG Hotels & Resorts between 2017 and 2023 and as IHG's Chief Commercial Officer between 2013 and 2017.  In that time, according to MGM, Barr successfully drove innovation and internal changes that increased revenues, improved operational efficiency, and built a more customer-centric culture at IHG.  "Keith's tremendous career is a testament to his leadership skills and eye for innovation," said Paul Salem, Chair of the MGM Resorts Board of Directors. "His experience in hotel operations, technology, sales, and marketing will be an incredible asset as he offers valuable guidance to MGM Resorts." MGM Resorts CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle added: "We welcome Keith to our Board and are excited to tap into his deep knowledge and insights as we continue to focus on providing world-class experiences for our guests. "Keith has spent decades driving innovation and growth in the hospitality industry, and his expertise in building a highly successful international business will be invaluable as we drive our own international growth strategy." Barr built his hospitality executive career with roles as CEO of Greater China, COO of Australia and New Zealand, and multiple roles in the Americas with IHG. He has served on the World Travel and Tourism Council, British American Business Council, and WiHTL. Barr also contributes his time to multiple advisory leadership roles at Cornell University, his alma mater. "It's an honor to serve in this leadership role as MGM Resorts continues to lead in hospitality experiences throughout the entire world," said Barr. "I'm looking forward to bringing my global hospitality expertise to the table as our leadership team continues to build MGM's reputation worldwide as the premier gaming and entertainment company."

Red Sea Global Hospitality has recently appointed Carla Puverel as the new general manager of Shebara, marking a significant step in the company's expansion in the luxury hospitality sector. With over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Puverel has demonstrated her expertise in various senior management roles across some of the most prestigious resorts in the Maldives, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Her most recent role was as General Manager at Rixos Qetaifan Island North in Doha, where she served from November 2023 to March 2024. Prior to this, she was the resort manager at Anantara Phuket Layan in Thailand and Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas in Sri Lanka, contributing significantly to the operations and guest experience at these renowned properties. Additionally, her leadership as General Manager at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka and Conrad Maldives Rangali Island highlights her capacity to manage high-end resorts.