Insider Stories

The Central Romana Corporation announces its appointment of Jason Kycek to Chief Marketing Officer of its Hospitality, Tourism, and Real Estate Division. In this new capacity, Kycek will oversee the corporation's brand, communication, and marketing strategies, while continuing his role as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas. Since joining Casa de Campo in January 2017, Kycek has led the company to consecutive record-breaking sales years. He has facilitated the company's growth and overall sales as well as marketing and revenue strategies with a profound commitment to excellence, elevating the guest experience, and securing ongoing profitability for shareholders. Kycek has worked tirelessly to bring new and exciting offerings to the resort such as the new Premier Club & Suites, which sets a new standard for luxury accommodations in the Dominican Republic, the opening of a new state-of-the-art destination spa and wellness center, and the introduction of the annual Casa de Campo Food & Wine Festival, turning La Romana into a culinary hot spot in the Dominican Republic. Kycek has also expanded the resort's network of trusted partners in several key areas such as transportation, golf, and apparel: In the aviation realm, Kycek created the Casa de Campo private jet program, which provides guests the opportunity to fly private through Wheels Up, Vista Jet/XO, and Sentient Jet. Kycek's work has also ushered new flights into La Romana Airport by forging alliances with American Airlines. To better serve one of the resort's key markets in South Florida, Kycek developed a collaboration with Braman Motorcars to offer exclusive perks to their loyalty members and gain guests of the resort specialty access to the luxury dealership. He also facilitated the iconic Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover featuring Martha Stewart which became the publications most sold edition in history. In the golf sector, Kycek has fostered several strategic partnerships to improve awareness and visibility for the resort's championship golf courses with partners such as Five Iron, Invited Clubs, and Thousand Greens, while also working with tech brands such as EA Sports and Golfzon/Trackman to get Casa de Campo golf courses added to their online programs. Kycek has worked to add several new likeminded retail partners to the resort's shopping options, with recently added brands including Ala von Auersperg and Namoia. Kycek has also rounded out the resort's events and programming offerings, bringing several new events to Casa de Campo such as Oktoberfest, Cigar & Rum Tasting Nights, Farmer's Markets, and art exhibitions. Kycek brings over 15 years of executive experience as a global hotelier to this new role. Previously, Kycek served as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Occidental Hotels and Resorts, overseeing the U.S. sales and marketing initiatives for the company's Caribbean, Mexican, and Latin American properties. Kycek spent the majority of his career with KSL Resorts in their La Quinta, CA corporate headquarters working with some of the greatest golf, spa, & historical hotels and resorts in the U.S. Kycek is a native of Wisconsin, where he earned his degree from the University of Wisconsin and his family still resides.

Seow’s innovative approach and proven expertise in the industry make her a great asset to the team

As Senior Vice President of Food & Beverage at Atlantis Paradise Island, Anthony Hannan brings over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Hannan has served as Director of Operations, Restaurants & Kitchens at Harrods London, Vice President Food & Beverage at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore, and helmed operations at internationally acclaimed hotels and resorts including Crown City Melbourne, City of Dreams Manila, Resorts World Singapore, Raffles Singapore, and Fairmont Dubai, Peace Hotel Shanghai and Capella Sanya.

Grand Metropolitan Hotels is bolstering its Supervisory Board with a distinguished addition. Dr. Philipp Rösler will actively support the management of the international hotel group and play a key role in shaping its global growth strategy. For company founder Martin R. Smura, this appointment marks a pivotal moment in the development of Grand Metropolitan Hotels. Dr. Philipp Rösler, a former German Federal Minister of Economics and a member of the Board of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Switzerland, brings international expertise and strong connections to the Asian market. His support will be especially instrumental in Vietnam, one of Grand Metropolitan Hotels’ future focus markets. With Dr. Philipp Rösler’s strategic network, Grand Metropolitan Hotels is well-positioned to sustainably expand its presence in the region. In addition to his role on the Supervisory Board, Rösler will also represent the company externally. This appointment underscores the hotel group’s commitment to further penetrating international markets and solidifying its brand position in the global hospitality industry. Dr. Philipp Rösler is a German politician and former Vice Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany. A trained medical doctor, he began his political career with the Free Democratic Party (FDP), serving as Federal Minister of Health, Federal Minister of Economics, and Vice Chancellor. As Federal Chairman of the FDP, Rösler played a significant role in shaping the party’s direction, championing economic liberal reforms. After retiring from active politics, Dr. Rösler successfully transitioned into the global business arena, leveraging his extensive contacts in Asia, particularly in Vietnam, to strengthen international relations.

Having only opened earlier this year, Serenity Spa, Fairmont The Palm, brings on Nadia Bartolomeo as spa director. With a diverse career spreading across many globally recognised wellness destinations and award-winning spas, she takes on the new role with the aim of supporting the spa become a well-recognised name in the UAE. Bartolomeo began her wellness journey in London, leading operations at St. Pancras Spa and refining her craft as a senior therapist at The Lanesborough Hotel. Bartolomeo joined Serenity Spa from Uptown Spa by S/O Hotel Dubai, where she led the pre-opening of the five-star spa. Prior to that role, Bartolomeo was director of spa and recreation at Ciel Spa, SLS Dubai Hotels and Residences where she received multiple awards including, the Fact Spa and Wellness Best Newcomer in 2021, and the World Luxury Spa Awards Luxury Couple Spa - UAE 2022. Her leadership and ability to nurture high-performing teams made Ciel Spa a standout in Dubai's wellness scene. A notable role in Bartolomeo's career is her tenure as director of spa at The Spa Palazzo, Versace, Dubai, one of the top luxury spas in the region. During her time there, the spa gained international recognition with Travel & Leisure Best Destination Spa International and Leaders in Hospitality Luxury Spa. Throughout her career Bartolomeo has managed pre-openings, and day-to-day operations at prestigious establishments including Ayana Spa at Bab Al Qasr Hotel in Abu Dhabi and The Spa at The Address Downtown Dubai. With Bartolomeo's new appointment, Serenity Spa, plan to redefine their position as a leader in luxury wellness.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Tiffany Cooper as Head of Development, Americas. Tiffany will play a pivotal role in leading the development and investment initiatives for the Americas region, focusing on the important U.S. market, Canada, and Latin America for the Group. With more than 30 years of experience in sales, marketing, operations and development, Tiffany brings exceptional industry insight and strategic expertise to Mandarin Oriental. Most recently, she served as Chief Development Officer for the Americas and Caribbean at Aimbridge Hospitality, where she led the development team in executing growth initiatives across the region. Tiffany began her career with Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in 1995, where she later advanced to Head of Development for North America and the Caribbean, playing a key role in expanding the brand through new hotel projects. She went on to hold leadership positions with Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International, making significant contributions to the development and growth of several distinguished brands. Tiffany holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Public Relations from California State University, East Bay, and an MBA from Johnson & Wales University. Commenting on the appointment, Francesco Cefalu, Chief Development Officer, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Tiffany to Mandarin Oriental. Her deep expertise and strategic approach perfectly complement our dedication to developing exceptional experiences. We are confident that Tiffany’s leadership will be a valuable asset as we drive our brand’s expansion throughout the Americas.” This appointment emphasises Mandarin Oriental’s commitment to growth and excellence, with Tiffany set to play a key role in advancing the Group’s ambitions in the region.

Mahesh is known for his problem-solving abilities and unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of teamwork and sustainability

Sarovar Premiere Amritsar has appointed Abhilash Menon as the General Manager. Abhilash began his journey with Taj Hotels in 2006, after graduating from the IHM Jaipur. His career has been marked by significant milestones, including his tenure at the iconic Leela Gurgaon, others where he played a pivotal role in managing the Food and Beverage portfolio, during high-profile events, such as the visits of two US Presidents and the Various Country heads, along with numerous other heads of state.  Guided by the hospitality philosophy of India – “Atithi Devo Bhava” which means "the guest is God". Abhilash has been committed to enhancing guest experiences and positioning the hotel as a premier luxury destination in Amritsar. He aims to cultivate a culture of excellence and innovation, ensuring every guest experience is memorable and unique.  A versatile hotelier and confident individual, Abhilash is known for confidently managing medium to large-scale hotel operations and bringing a wealth of leadership experience to the industry. Expressing his enthusiasm about his new role, Abhilash said, “I am honoured to join Sarovar Premiere Amritsar and excited to open the first Sarovar Premiere in Punjab. My vision is to build a vibrant and dynamic environment where guests get a refreshed experience every time they step in. Together with my team, I aim to establish Sarovar Premiere Amritsar as a benchmark for hospitality in Amritsar.”

Last September, Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris welcomed Thibaut Drege back as General Manager, marking his return to Paris after two years at the helm of Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest. A graduate of the École Hôtelière de Lausanne, Thibaut Drege has nearly two decades of experience in the luxury hospitality industry both in France and internationally. His love affair with the George V began in 2018 when he joined the iconic palace as Hotel Manager, marking the beginning of his career with Four Seasons. Within this legendary Parisian palace, Thibaut Drege quickly earned the respect and admiration of a 600-strong team. Guided by his passion and unwavering dedication to this global icon of hospitality, he infused the Hotel with dynamic energy, devoting nearly five years to crafting unique experiences for guests. After playing a pivotal role in the Hotel's success in meeting several challenges, including the global health crisis, Thibaut Drege relocated to Budapest in 2022 to assume the role of General Manager at Four Seasons Gresham Palace. In this iconic European setting - an architectural gem along the banks of the Danube - he instilled a renewed energy and guided the property on a path to excellence, before returning to the French capital to the Hotel that holds a special place in his heart. As General Manager, Thibaut Drege aims to further reinforce the principles that have established the Hotel's international reputation, while infusing his vision, experience, and energy into every initiative. He is also committed to fostering a culture of kindness and empathy in his approach to team management.

The Cove Eleuthera is proud to announce the appointment of Nicholas Cooper and Sally Cooper to Managing Director and Resort Manager, respectively, of the Bahamian resort. Together, the duo brings over 30 years of management experience in tourism and hospitality. Most recently at Gibbs Farm Safari Lodge in Tanzania, Sally and Nick, as co-general managers, oversaw this five-star resort with a working farm and coffee plantation. Prior to Gibbs, they worked in unison managing other luxury resorts on the Cook Islands in the South Pacific and in Belize. For over a decade in Fiji, they held numerous leadership roles, including general managers for Fiji Residences, a luxury villa management company. Sally held various project management, event design and tourism positions, including National Director of Operations at Cure Kids Fiji and Director of Conferences & Events at Tourism Fiji. As owner of Ocean Charters Fiji, Nick organized exclusive sailing charters, managed operations for an online reservations service for South Pacific travel and was a marine and leisure manager at an island resort. Prior to Fiji, the duo was based in Australia, where they honed their management skills in travel and tourism. Sally and Nick both hold Master’s Degrees in Tourism Management from University of Canberra, and Nick has an MBA from James Cook University (Australia). The unique beauty of the Bahamas and the opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s rich culture attracted the Coopers to The Cove. Having met over 30 years ago as scuba instructors in Tahiti, the pair have developed an affinity for aquatic adventure and island life, which they are looking forward to reflecting in their work for The Cove. “The soft white sand and clear waters of Eleuthera paired with the gentle rhythm of life that comes from living near the ocean entices us,” said Sally Cooper. “We are excited to learn more about The Bahamas and its people, culture and history.” For more information about The Cove Eleuthera, please visit www.thecoveeleuthera.com or call (242) 335-5141. To engage with the resort socially, find us on Instagram at @thecove_eleuthera.

Gabrielle Mendoza, a renowned trainer in restorative yoga and the creator of the Uncovering the Oasis Within concept, has been specially invited to hold classes at Banyan Tree Krabi resort in southern Thailand from December 6 - 15, 2024. During her 10-day residency as visiting practitioner, Gabrielle will be offering a plethora of mindful and holistic practices, including Vinyasa Yoga, meditation and sound healing, as well as her signature classes of restorative yoga, where one maintains deep breaths and maintains asanas (yoga poses) for longer - a technique accredited with alleviating stress, and helping with sleep, flexibility, and overall wellbeing. Based in Singapore, Gabrielle says that she “crumbled under the stress of the corporate world” and later only reclaimed her lost self through yoga. She says she now follows her dharma to help others manage stress through the means of mindfulness, meditation, and the discipline of yoga. Her appearance at Banyan Tree Krabi is another step forward in the hotel’s “Wellbeing Sanctuary” programme, which was initiated in 2021 and allows guests an option to combine a leisure vacation with a tailor-made daily itinerary designed to enrich mind, body and soul — from meditation and spa treatments to Thai boxing and nature trails — complemented with a nutritious diet and personal consultations. The Wellbeing Sanctuary programme is based on Banyan Tree’s own “8 Pillars” principle (Nourishment; Movement; Mindfulness; Rest; Groundedness; Growth; Connection; and Practice). Banyan Tree Spa Krabi was recently singled out by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide as one of the seven most luxurious spas in Thailand. MICHELIN also accredited the hotel with 2 Keys in its inaugural hotel listings for Thailand.  Located on tranquil Tubkaek Beach, some 25 km west of the town of Krabi, Banyan Tree Krabi has 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa. The resort backs into a lush forested national park, and each of the 72 rooms faces westward towards uninhabited islands in the Andaman Sea. Facilities at this 5-star hotel include two restaurants and a beach bar, a beach club, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa Krabi. For more about Gabrielle Mendoza’s upcoming courses at Banyan Tree Krabi, visit: https://www.banyantree.com/thailand/krabi/gabrielle-mendoza For more information or bookings, contact: reservations-krabi@banyantree.com, or tel +66 075 811 888.

Le Sereno, the iconic luxury beachfront hotel in Saint Barthélemy, is pleased to announce the appointment of Tiphaine Lacombe as the new Hotel Manager. Lacombe brings a wealth of experience in luxury hospitality, with a career that has taken her from Australia to some of France’s most prestigious properties.  With an extensive background in hotel management, Lacombe’s career includes leadership roles at the prestigious Château de Berne***** Relais & Châteaux and Château de Sacy in Champagne, where she served as Director for over three years. More recently, she managed two luxury hotels for the Bombaron Group before taking on high-end experiences at Maisons Perrier-Jouët and Mumm in 2023. In her new role at Le Sereno, Lacombe will prioritize operational excellence, team development, and strengthening the hotel’s positioning as ultra-luxury destination in Saint Barthélemy. She will also focus on maintaining the family-oriented culture that Sereno Hotels is renowned for, ensuring guests enjoy the brand’s signature relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. “I am thrilled to step into the role of General Manager at Le Sereno – Saint Barthélemy, a family-run property that truly embodies relaxed luxury,” expresses Lacombe. “This opportunity marks an exciting new chapter in my career, where I aim to uphold the destination’s renowned elegance and warmth in every detail.” Luis Contreras, owner of Sereno Hotels, welcomed Tiphaine to the Sereno Hotels family, highlighting her expertise and leadership. “Tiphaine’s role will be pivotal in maintaining our high standards of service and delivering exceptional guest experiences,” noted Contreras. “At Sereno Hotels, we pride ourselves on partnering with top industry talent to uphold our core values of design, location, culinary excellence, and unparalleled service. Tiphaine will play a central role in continuing this legacy.”