La Vie grows team across Asia Pacific
La Vie Hotels and Resorts has announced a total of six appointments across the region, from Sydney to South East Asia.
Alan Christie has been named Area General Manager, Sri Lanka, taking responsibility for driving strategic performance of the three Radisson properties in the country. Christie brings over two decades of senior asset management experience most recently as Executive Vice President Advisory and Asset Management at JLL Singapore.
Suthiroj Sathitpornkitti (Chris) has been appointed Director of Growth and Business Development South and South East Asia. Sathitpornkitti has more than 12 years’ experience in business development for international hotel companies under his belt and will be focused on strategic expansion of the business. He will be based in the company’s Bangkok regional office.
In Sydney, La Vie welcomes Abhey Sachdeva as Business Development Manager, Australia; Andrew Marin as Group Manager of Sales; and Justin Furkhan as Business Support Manager, Australia.
Sachdeva will drive sales performance for hotels within the Australian shared services portfolio; Marin will focus on growing partnerships, particularly in the corporate, leisure and MICE markets. He brings over 20 years’ experience in aviation and hospitality management across South America, Middle East, Europe, Asia Pacific.
Furkhan has held several leadership roles at luxury brands including The Fullerton and InterContinental.
Catriona McKay, also in the Sydney office, has been promoted to Group Manager Revenue and Distribution. She will use her extensive experience to implement revenue optimisation, standardise channel management and manage processes for the company’s Hotel Management services.
“We understand the importance of investing in, and building, a strong management team that offers the best industry knowledge and experience,” said La Vie Hotels and Resorts Managing Director, Craig Bond.
“These six new appointments in Sri Lanka, Thailand and Australia highlight our continued focus on maintaining the highest performance standards within our organisation while ensuring we have the right skill set in place to fuel our strategic growth across the region.”
Rydges Formosa welcome award-winning GM
Hotelier Clive Wardle has commenced the position of General Manager at Rydges Formosa Golf Resort – a property located 40 minutes southeast of Auckland.
Wardle began his hotel career as a concierge fifteen years ago and his since won industry awards including for monthly hotel growth and hotel of the year.
“There was never any doubt that Clive is the right person for this job,” said General Manager Operations New Zealand – EVT Hotels and Resorts, Simon White.
“He brings years of experience, passion for people and a strong commitment to the local community.”
Wardle said he is thrilled to join the team, saying “the stars have aligned”.
“Every day I take a minute to marvel at the expansive panoramic views Rydges Formosa has across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island, Rangitoto Island and Coromandel Peninsula,” he said.
“But it’s my team that is the heart and soul helping locals and visitors melt their worries away and relax in this picturesque setting.”
Langham Gold Coast appoints pastry chef to lead afternoon tea
The Langham, Gold Coast has welcomed Executive Pastry Chef, Johann Vanier, to lead its afternoon tea experience.
From June 1, Vanier will present a Taste of France afternoon tea experience at the hotel’s Palm Court dining venue, drawing inspiration from his French heritage.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Chef Johann’s remarkable expertise and innovative approach to the art of pastry-making,” said The Langham, Gold Coast General Manager, John O’Shea.
“The Langham brand has become synonymous with the tradition of afternoon tea, since it was first served at The Langham London in 1865, and the arrival of Chef Johann will elevate the experience with the craftsmanship of French Patisserie.
“Chef Johann has honed and built his culinary knowledge under the tutelage of some of the world’s finest Michelin-starred French restaurants, and we’re excited to bring this level of sophistication to our heritage afternoon tea offering.”