With the progressive worldwide expansion, global hospitality management group The Lux Collective is pleased to announce the appointment of Oliviero Cassini as Chief Development Officer - EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa), based in Dubai.
Oliviero joins The Lux Collective with over two decades of experience in the luxury hospitality industry. An eclectic and well-versed professional, his expertise includes Development Management, Private Equity, Asset Management and Strategy Advisory across the globe.
Oliviero's distinguished career showcases his exceptional business acumen and keen ability to operate in a multitude of countries. He has undertaken hospitality development projects across the Middle East, Africa, Europe and South America and contributed to some of the world’s most prestigious and ground-breaking real estate developments including AMAALA in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Lusail City in Qatar.
Prior to joining The Lux Collective, Oliviero was the Director of Development at Red Sea Global, a leading real estate development company owned by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Company (PIF). He has also held senior roles in the UAE, Qatar and Europe.
Through his deep understanding of the development process, strong network and awareness of the latest hospitality trends, Oliviero will spearhead and accelerate the expansion of The Lux Collective’s four distinctive brands in the EMEA region, in line with the Group’s success in the Indian Ocean and Asia. An Italian national, Oliviero is proficient in five languages and holds a British-German bachelor’s degree in European Business Administration.
Paul Jones, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective said, “Oliviero has a proven track record in conceptualising and delivering luxury hospitality developments. We are confident that under his leadership, The Lux Collective will further cement its commitment in this growing region and continue to expand its global footprint as a leading world-class hospitality group.”
“I am excited to join The Lux Collective, a truly trendsetting hospitality company, which has created and is managing some of the world’s most innovative and successful brands. I am confident that the introduction of LUX*, SALT, TAMASSA and SOCIO in the EMEA region will receive the interest and recognition these brands deserve,” comments Oliviero Cassini, Chief Development Officer - EMEA of The Lux Collective.
Tyrone Lodder has been named the new general manager of Novotel Muscat Airport. In this role, he will oversee the hotel's daily operations and management, with a focus on maintaining high standards for stakeholders.
With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Lodder brings a wealth of knowledge in areas such as food and beverage, staff development, and enhancing guest satisfaction. His career with Accor spans 11 years, including positions as cluster general manager at Grand Mercure Dubai City and Ibis Styles Dubai Airport. Lodder's journey in hospitality began in South Africa, igniting his passion for the field.
Lodder expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Novotel Muscat team, aiming to contribute to the growth of Oman's hospitality sector. He plans to lead with positivity and transparency, prioritizing customer satisfaction and guest experiences.
His goals include forging strong relationships with hotel owners, stakeholders, and the team to support the local community and advance the national hospitality industry.
Novotel Muscat Airport, which opened in January 2020, caters to both business and leisure travelers. The hotel features 215 rooms and suites, three unique dining options, six versatile meeting spaces, a ballroom, and the In-balance Fitness & Wellness Club.
This appointment marks the third venture of Accor Hotel Management Corporation in Oman.
The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Mazen Allam as its new General Manager, effective September 2023. Mr. Allam brings a distinguished career in luxury hospitality and a rich understanding of the Saudi Arabian market to his new role, making him a valuable addition to the hotel's leadership team.
Mr. Allam's journey in the industry began at Le Meridien Jeddah in 2002, where he started at the Front Desk and swiftly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming Assistant Director of Sales in 2009, thanks to his exceptional commercial acumen.
In 2011, Mr. Allam joined the Rosewood Jeddah, where he played a pivotal role in elevating the property into one of Jeddah's foremost luxury destinations. He started as the Director of Sales & Marketing, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership. This culminated in his appointment as General Manager in 2018, where he continued to excel. His remarkable achievements led to a regional role as Managing Director in 2021, overseeing new development deals across the Kingdom.
A graduate of Prince Sultan College in Jeddah with a degree in Hotels & Tourism Management, Mr. Allam's extensive experience and track record of success make him a valuable addition to The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, further solidifying its position as a leading luxury destination in Saudi Arabia.
Commenting on his new appointment, Mazen Allam said "I am deeply honored to assume leadership at The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, a symbol of unparalleled luxury, and to continue my journey as part of the esteemed Marriott International brand. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with our exceptional team to perpetuate Marriott's legacy of delivering awe-inspiring service, unforgettable dining experiences, and an unwavering commitment to perfection. Through our dedication to our team members, I am confident that we will attain new heights for The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, aspiring to set new standards of excellence in the luxury and premium-select segments.”
The Shangri-La Group is thrilled to welcome Hein Dames as the new Vice President of Human Resources for the Middle East, India, Americas & Europe region (MEIA). Hein’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment as Shangri-La continues to strengthen its brand positioning and foster a work culture of excellence. Based in Dubai, Hein officially joined the group end of September 2023.
Hein Dames is an esteemed HR leader with extensive experience across the Middle East and Asia. His pragmatic approach to problem-solving and his adeptness in developing successful teams have positioned him as a distinguished figure in the realm of Human Resources.
Shangri La Qaryat Al Beri Abu Dhabi
Kapil Aggarwal, Co-Head for the Middle East, India, Indian Ocean, Americas and Europe region, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are delighted to have Hein Dames in our leadership team. His vast experience, understanding of cultural sensitivities, and his strategic insight into HR frameworks will contribute to our vision of becoming the most loved hospitality group in the world. Hein’s commitment to fostering relationships and his strong management skills are precisely what Shangri-La needs as we continue to grow and innovate."
Hein shares his excitement, "Joining the Shangri-La Group is a significant milestone. I have always admired Shangri-La's unparalleled commitment to customer service, and I am eager to face the opportunities and challenges this role will present. I am keen to work with the extraordinary colleagues who have been integral to the company's success, and I look forward to establishing strong working relationships with them. Being based in Dubai allows me to reconnect with many professional acquaintances, and I anticipate a multitude of fruitful collaborations in the coming months."
Hein's extensive travel and varied roles, ranging from directing HR in entertainment complexes, managing HR and Learning and development programs, to running his own businesses, reflect his adaptability and diverse experience. Hein holds an exemplary portfolio of certifications and qualifications, including an Honors in Employee/Labor Relations from the University of Johannesburg and a BA in Psychology from the University of Pretoria. He is also a certified professional coach.
His appointment marks Shangri-La’s ongoing commitment to nurturing a conducive working environment and fostering growth and development within the organization. Hein's leadership will further fortify Shangri-La's efforts in pushing the boundaries of luxury hospitality, contributing to the collective success of the brand.
Leading luxury hospitality company Four Seasons announces the promotion of Adrian Messerli to the role of President, Hotel Operations – Europe, Middle East and Africa. As a member of the company’s operations leadership team, he now has responsibility for a region that includes more than 40 hotels, resorts and residences – and growing.
As Four Seasons strengthens its presence in each of three regions – Americas, Europe/Middle East/Africa (EMEA) and Asia Pacific (APAC) – Messerli is leading an expanding team of corporate operations and commercial specialists in EMEA in support of its properties and experiential offerings in the region, while delivering value for guests, residents, partners and owners.
“Beyond his impressive experience, Adrian has always been a champion of his teams and of Four Seasons core values,” notes Rainer Stampfer, Four Seasons President, Global Operations, Hotels and Resorts. “He is a firm believer that empowered people drive an exceptional guest experience, ideally positioning him to both nurture and grow our teams and portfolio across the region.”
Born in a resort village in Switzerland and raised in a fourth-generation family-owned hotel environment, it’s no surprise that Messerli pursued a hospitality career, earning a degree at the prestigious École hôtelière de Lausanne before catching the eye of Four Seasons in 2005.
An exceptional hotelier with extensive global experience, Messerli’s longstanding career with Four Seasons saw him taking on more responsibilities with each role in the United States, Caribbean, South America, China, Africa, the Middle East and Europe. Following General Manager assignments in Seychelles and Shanghai, he was most recently Regional Vice President and General Manager of the award-winning Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Madrid. In addition to his strength in food and beverage operations, Messerli has been a member of the company’s Global Spa Task Force. Outside of Four Seasons, he is an active member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and a founding member of a culinary school in Evora, Portugal that aims to grow culinary and service talent for young adults in need.
“After the last few fulfilling years leading our magnificent property in Madrid and overseeing several of our dynamic hotels in the region, I am proud and energized to be taking on this new leadership role across EMEA,” says Messerli. “There are countless opportunities ahead for our company, our people and our owners as we continue to grow in key markets and enhance our existing portfolio of hotels, resorts, and residences, and the spas, restaurants and bars that are so key to the experience. I’m honoured to take on this new role and help guide this next exciting phase of our company.”
Messerli adds, “I look forward to continuing to help advance and support the amazing people who bring the Four Seasons experience to life each day.”
With the progressive worldwide expansion, global hospitality management group The Lux Collective is pleased to announce its newly-established regional office in the Middle East along with the appointment of Christian Pertl as Chief Commercial Officer, based in Dubai.
Christian joins The Lux Collective with three decades of experience in the luxury hospitality industry. He is a well-respected branding and marketing expert, who consistently innovates with unique commercial and operational strategies that focus on total revenue optimisation.
Christian's distinguished career showcases his visionary leadership. A dedicated hotelier at heart, he has a deep passion for cultivating and nurturing teams. His advocacy for talent development underscores his unwavering commitment to promoting individual and organisational growth. His approach to change management and innovation has enabled him to transform teams and lead the expansion of renowned international hotel brands.
LUX* Belle Mare, Mauritius
Prior to joining The Lux Collective, Christian was the Chief Commercial Officer at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, part of John Keells Holdings, a multi-billion-dollar diversified company listed on the Colombo stock exchange. He has also held senior executive roles at Hyatt International, Jumeirah and IHG.
In addition to a Business Diploma in Tourism & Hotel Management from Austria's College for Tourism and Hotel Management, Christian holds Master Certificates in Hospitality Management and Hotel Real Estate Investments & Asset Management from Cornell University.
Paul Jones, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective said, “Christian has a proven track record in brand development across international hotel chains and success in driving financial growth for luxury lifestyle hotels. We are confident that under his leadership, The Lux Collective will continue to achieve greater heights as a leading world-class hospitality group.”
Christian will strengthen the Group by focusing on awareness-driving strategies for its portfolio of brands across all channels, while empowering people and elevating the industry. He will also spearhead the launch of two properties opening in 2024 – LUX* Al Jabal and LUX* Al Bridi in Sharjah, UAE, cementing the brand’s commitment and presence in this growing region.
“At The Lux Collective, passion is at the core of everything we do. Our global expansion and the award-winning properties we manage are a testament to the organisation's success. I look forward to contributing to the Group’s vision of doubling the portfolio in five years and working with the team to create Extraordinary Experiences for all our guests worldwide in fulfilment of the Life Extraordinary brand promise. Exciting times lie ahead, and I am pleased to be a part of this journey,” comments Christian Pertl, Chief Commercial Officer of The Lux Collective.
Jumeirah Group, the luxury hospitality company and member of Dubai Holding, has announced the appointment of Joanne Behrens as Senior Vice President of Architecture & Spatial Design. The appointment is a pivotal step in the Group’s commitment to evolving the Jumeirah brand with a guest-centric design approach, blending creativity, lifestyle, and local elements across its physical spaces.
With almost two decades of architectural and design expertise in the luxury hospitality sector, Behrens will spearhead the evolution of Jumeirah’s design ethos to align with the brand’s new expression of luxury hospitality. With capital assigned to grow its portfolio globally, as well as refine its existing properties, Behrens will play a central role in elevating Jumeirah’s brand vision across all new projects, renovations, and conversions, including Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Dubai, Jumeirah Le Richemond Geneva and Jumeirah Red Sea.
Katerina Giannouka, Chief Executive Officer of Jumeirah Group, said: “Since the creation of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah over two decades ago, Jumeirah has consistently broken boundaries and created the exceptional. Our hotels offer immersive experiences, connecting the most discerning travellers, cultures and communities. As we enter a new era for the Jumeirah brand, we are taking the opportunity to evolve our business and our entire value proposition, with a very human-centric approach. This new role forms an essential part of our vision for Jumeirah to shine brilliantly, with a refined position among the highest echelons of luxury hospitality operators.”
Behrens brings an impressive track record, having collaborated with world-renowned designers and artists to conceive and deliver distinctive designs, fashioning the guest experience with captivating and unique spaces. She has held senior positions with renowned luxury brands, including most recently Rosewood Hotel Group, where she was Vice President of Design & Project Services for the Americas.
Central to the evolution of the Jumeirah brand is a commitment to embrace tangible, scalable and practical sustainable solutions for the hospitality industry. As part of this commitment, Behrens will work closely with Jumeirah Group’s Sustainability Committee to uphold sustainable and inclusive design practices across its portfolio.
With over 16 years of experience in the hospitality business, today Brayant is the Corporate Revenue Management Head of Al Khoory Hotels. In this exclusive interview, he is sharing his view on success in the industry.
Can you give us brief about your position and responsibilities?
I’m handling 7 strategically located Al Khoory hotels in Dubai with over 1200 keys, where I’m responsible to lead the Revenue, Reservation & E-distribution team of very passionate and hard-working individuals.
I got my first taste of the hotel industry as this journey started in 2008 as Central Reservation Agent at Hilton 5-star International Hotel taught me a lot about the industry. Since then, it’s been an amazing ride with some of the renowned hotel brands like Rotana Hotels, Oberoi Hotels, Rixos Hotels, Pullman Hotels, Accor Hotels within the Country.
In Corporate Revenue Management, we call ourselves as “profit managers” of the modern world, we guide the brands to the next level of commercial strategy whereby we look on the most profitability of the company. Responsible for building rates, packages, and hotel sales strategy information in the hotel(s)' inventory systems. The position makes pricing and positioning recommendations for market hotels. Conducts analysis of revenue, profit and demand associated with hotel rooms and space inventory. Position contributes to forecasts, budgets, weekly and daily projections. Position critiques sales strategy effectiveness and prepares historical and future analysis of revenue and profit opportunities.
What are the current trends/challenges in your area?
Among the most significant revenue management trends to be aware of is the concept of total revenue management. Within hotels, revenue management is usually focused on pricing, distribution, and marketing of hotel rooms. Yet, with total revenue management, the focus turns to generate as much money as possible from all revenue streams.
New and emerging technology is always going to be one of the most critical revenue management trends to keep pace with. At present, some of the biggest technology trends include the use of hotel management software, the rise of specialist revenue management software, as well as other tools, like upselling software.
Another key revenue management trend to be aware of is the heightened need for cross-departmental collaboration. This has always been a major part of effective revenue management because different departments need to work together to share relevant data and ensure their strategies align with broader business objectives.
Data is at the very heart of any good revenue management strategy and the array of data that is available to hotels is vast, including historical data, current trends, competition data, wider market data, online reviews, data that is in the books, and more. All of this requires careful use of data analytics to achieve the best outcomes.
Historically, revenue management has been hugely reliant on past data to anticipate future demand. However, one of the major revenue management trends you need to know about is the rise of forward-looking market demand data. Essentially, this refers to clear data regarding future levels of demand, typically from competitors.
To reach peak performance, it is essential that you continuously monitor and understand business performance. What are your main revenue streams? What is the revenue per distribution channel? What costs are associated with each distribution channel? What is the current, on the book’s performance per hotel, room type, segment, restaurant, and bar?
Being in one of the busiest cities in the world, with more than 140,000 rooms available in Dubai, revenue management doesn’t sleep, let the system works for you and by having dynamic yet strategic approach in day-to-day operation is the key to maximize the business and yield at maximum revenue. Having a strategy with no culture is like a strategy with no planning.
What does it take to grow to the executive level in your field?
Learn From The Best
Having the right advocate and mentor is key for any manager looking to up their leadership to the executive level. Being able to take advice, gain help to navigate the pitfalls and learn about the developmental requirements from those who have done it is highly beneficial when you’re looking to move up.
Create A Roadmap To Success
Lay out a plan so that you can have an objective roadmap to success. All too often, I work with leaders that take this next step to the executive level and feel that they have arrived.
Know Why You Want What You Want
As you grow into higher levels of leadership, you will still play a dual role of serving those you lead and serving those you follow. Some tips for growing into an executive role: Know why you want what you want. Good leadership always values people. Finding success is a marathon. Base decisions on principles, not optics. And remember, critical thinking and self-awareness are necessary no matter the title.
Be A Source Of Inspiration
People advocate for those who inspire them the most. Become a source of inspiration for your employees and leadership team based on how you connect authentically, go the extra mile, lend a compassionate ear, and enable them to find solutions through thoughtful questioning.
Understand Your Strengths And Weaknesses
An emerging leader who is preparing to advance to the executive level must have a keen understanding of their leadership characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, and blind spots. Having a willingness to go within and dig deeper to access the highest and best version of themselves will prepare them to successfully transition into a role with more responsibility where the stakes are higher.
Any learning sources/techniques you would recommend?
Young hoteliers need to be tech savvy, keep on developing and continue learning. I am a massive fan in tech. AI (artificial intelligence) will replace the manual work anytime soon, we started to cater generation Z, so we need to define our strategies based on their needs i.e. they are very tech savvy and want to use the latest technologies, and they love personalized interactions and spontaneity.
Working in hospitality teaches you skills you would not learn anywhere else. It teaches about prioritization, swift problem-solving, crystal-clear communication, humility, and how to keep a smile on your face despite having a rough day. Working in hospitality means working with the team to overcome any hurdle.
What would be your next career step?
There's always something more to learn, or something that you can strive to do better than your self yesterday. Identify these areas, incorporate continuous learning as an integral part of your job, and always seek to keep your skills and knowledge updated. I really wanted to grow within the organization and be part of the success of the company. I’m aiming for improving and to helping the brand to be know not only locally but internationally, we are aiming to acquire more hotels in future.
About the Brand
Al Khoory Hotels offers guests the unforgettable experience of hospitality at some of the finest hotels and hotel apartments in Dubai. Al Khoory Hotels are managed by Al Khoory Hospitality, a subdivision of the Al Khoory Group, a conglomerate with diverse interests in different business sectors.
Our hotels are located near important business centres including Business Bay, the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), as well as top leisure and entertainment destinations, such as Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Mall of the Emirates, La Mer, Jumeirah beach and Al Fahidi Historical District. Our hotels’ convenient location and ease of access to public transport and the Dubai Metro make them the perfect choice for business travellers as well as vacationers.
Al Khoory Hotel Apartments, Al Barsha, Dubai, Al Khoory Atrium Hotel, Al Khoory Executive Hotel, Al Khoory Inn, Urban Al Khoory Hotels and Al Khoory Sky Garden Hotel. Situated in the prime commercial and tourist locations of Dubai, our hotels provide the perfect experience of hospitality for leisure and business travelers alike.
As the new F&B manager at Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah, Anthony hopes to elevate the hotel's offerings to include more activations.
Receiving a bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management at the American University of Technology, he has since amassed vast experience in the Middle East region, having worked in both Kuwait and Lebanon.
Anthony started his career as a waiter and worked his way up the ranks to cluster operation manager in charge of F&B at the Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn in Kuwait.
This has helped him gain experience in handling different verticals of dining experiences and exclusive settings for individual guests and groups.
Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai Hotel has appointed Jihane Rahmani as marketing & PR communications manager.
Britta Leick-Milde, hotel manager, shared: “We are thrilled to have Rahmani join our team as the marketing & PR manager. Creativity and innovation are a fundamental focus for our hotel, and we are confident that her expertise will continue to enhance our success in Dubai’s competitive hospitality market.”
Rahmani is fluent in three languages and holds a Masters in Marketing and Commercial Communications from Morocco. Before joining Hyatt Hotels, she was the Cluster Marketing Manager at IHG Hotels & Resorts Abu Dhabi, where she successfully launched several marketing campaigns and events, resulting in increased brand awareness and revenue growth.
“I am delighted to be part of the team of ladies at Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai and be a part of this property. In my new role, I seek to create engaging conversations with our guests and build a strong presence in the market. I believe that understanding the brand itself, its values, and especially why it exists are the most important things in this industry.”, commented Jihani on her appointment.
Spearheading marketing for one of the most iconic hotel brands in modern hospitality, Roshan Radhay, coming from Mauritius, is a Middle East & Indian Ocean commercial guru who performs daily magic for The Lux Collective.
Fairmont The Palm, Dubai announces the appointment of Darren Andow, in the role of Director of Culinary.
Before joining Fairmont The Palm, he was managing the culinary brigade at Movenpick, Novotel, and Adagio Hotels in Jumeirah Village Triangle, Pullman in Sharjah and Marjan Island Resort and Spa in Ras Al Khaimah, in the role of Cluster Executive Chef. His focus was to ensure that each team worked to drive quality and ensure memorable and exceptional dining experiences.
Meticulous and dynamic, Darren has over 15 years of experience in leading teams across various brands.
From seasonally inspired menus to dining journeys that will satisfy any craving, Chef Darren and his team are preparing unforgettable guest experiences at Fairmont The Palm, Dubai.
