La Vie hires ex Spicers Retreats GM to drive boutique
La Vie Hotels and Resorts has appointed experienced boutique hotel manager, Sam Giles, as General Manager at 202 Elizabeth.
Giles will also be responsible for bringing La Vie’s vision for boutique hotels to life as the business seeks to capitalise on the growing demand for personalised hotel experience.
Giles brings more than 20 years’ experience managing boutique hotels, having previously worked at Spicers Retreats for over 13 years, including as Regional General Manager, before moving into an Area Manager role for Salter Brothers.
“We’re thrilled to be welcoming Sam to the La Vie family and very pleased to have someone of his calibre not only leading 202 Elizabeth, but imparting his wealth of experience and knowledge on what it takes to manage successful boutique hotels,” said La Vie Hotels and Resorts CEO, Jerry Xu.
“We’re finding more and more that guests are seeking more than just a place to stay for the night. They want a touch of uniqueness and a hotel with personality, which is demonstrated by the ongoing success of 202 Elizabeth and ADGE Hotel & Residences.
“We have big plans to grow our boutique portfolio across Asia Pacific, particularly in Australia, and look forward to sharing more details in the coming months.”
Giles said he looks forward to building the momentum of 202 Elizabeth, following its launch last year.
“I have a real passion for the industry, in particular boutique hotels, and am thrilled to be joining the team at 202 Elizabeth and La Vie,” he said.
“The thing I love most about boutique hotels is the relationship you develop with guests during their stay which often sees them treating you and the team like family.
“My main focus will be on building a luxury experience that utilises our amazing location by giving guests easy access to local restaurants and suppliers. At the end of the day, we want guests to feel like they’re coming home rather than to a hotel after a day of exploring the city.”
Sustainability is front of mind for Giles, with plans to reduce the amount of waste, energy and water consumed at the hotel.
He has already begun working behind the scenes to activate the hotel’s signature rooftop and wine cellar/café to deliver new experiences for guests.
EVT appoints Rydges Resort and Hunter Region GM
Rydges Resort Hunter Valley has welcomed a new general manager with the recent appointment of Robert (Rob) McGufficke.
McGufficke, who also assumes the position of Area General Manager Hunter Region, described the role as a “dream job”.
“I have always enjoyed the challenge of managing hotels with significant conferencing, food and beverage focus,” he said.
“The opportunity to join the exceptional team at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley and oversee the region is a dream job.
“NSW’s largest regional conference centre, sensational rooms and villas, golf, fantastic food and beverage outlets including Lovedale Bar and Grill and a raft of new developments in the pipeline such as Dr Schwartz’s Sydney Brewery on site. It is an exciting time for the property, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success.”
McGufficke brings a wealth of experience managing high-performing hotels specialising in conference and events facilities. During his 22-year career at EVT, he has overseen EVT’s Southeast Queensland and Northern NSW regions while rolling out group-wide food and beverage initiatives.
EVT describes McGufficke as a “results-oriented professional” with exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of hospitality.
“Rob’s appointment marks an important new chapter for Rydges Resort Hunter Valley, whilst signally a commitment to continued excellence and innovation for EVT Hotels and Resorts in the region,” said Rydges General Manager Hotel Operations, Troy Cuthbertson.
Langham names regional marketing lead
Langham Hospitality Group has appointed The Langham Melbourne’s longstanding marketing lead André Jacques as Regional Director of Marketing, Pacific.
Reporting directly to Regional Vice President of Operations, Pacific, Jeffrey van Vorsselen, André will oversee marketing initiatives across the region, including The Langham Melbourne, The Langham Sydney, The Langham Gold Coast, and Cordis Auckland.
He will be responsible for driving brand-wide marketing strategies, supporting hotels on special projects, and maintaining his leadership role as Director of Sales and Marketing at the Melbourne hotel, which he has held since January 2015.
Jacques is a tourism advocate, actively supporting Melbourne as a destination to premium international travellers, and is passionate about supporting the arts, community and charitable causes.
“André’s impressive track record and unwavering commitment to excellence make him the ideal leader for our marketing endeavours in the Pacific region,” said Langham Hospitality Group Regional Vice President of Operations, Pacific, Jeffrey van Vorsselen.
“We are confident that under his guidance, our hotels will continue to flourish and deliver exceptional experiences to our guests.”