Adelaide Marriott names General Manager
Adelaide’s first Marriott hotel, which is set to open in August 2024, will be led by experienced hotel industry professional, Paul Gallop, as General Manager.
Gallop brings years of management experience, having led successful hotel openings and complex renovation project. Prior to joining Adelaide Marriott, he served as General Manager at Four Points by Sheraton Auckland and previously held GM roles within Millennium Hotels and Resorts, TFE Hotels, Stamford Hotels and Resorts and more.
Having grown up watching his father thrive in hospitality, Gallop said hotel management is part of his DNA,
“My father was a successful hotel General Manager and, having grown up in this customer-centric environment, I consider hotel management to be part of my DNA – it’s where I’m meant to be,” he said.
“I’ve seen firsthand over many years how the Marriott reputation rests on its consistent offering of elevated experiences delivered with a heartfelt service like no other.
“That is the reason we have a membership of over 200 million Marriott Bonvoy loyalty members. We look forward to launching our first hotel and flagship brand in Adelaide and continuing that legacy of excellence here.”
The 5-star Adelaide Marriott Hotel is housed within the historic General Post Office (GPO) building, a treasured landmark in a prime CBD locaation on the corner of King William and Franklin Streets.
The hotel opening comes as Adelaide cements its status as a major tourism and events destination, with LIV Golf among the major drawcards.
“The Adelaide calendar is packed with world-class cultural, culinary, and sporting events, as well as major conferences, and these – alongside the state’s stunning natural attractions and outstanding wine regions – are attracting more and more visitors to this vibrant capital each year,” Gallop said.
“Our A1 location, right in the heart of the city opposite the Adelaide Town Hall and a short walk or tram ride to the Adelaide Convention Centre and Adelaide Oval, makes the new Marriott Hotel a clear first-choice for leisure and business travellers looking for a premium stay close to all the action.”
Ascott announces six leadership appointments
The Ascott Limited has appointed six key leaders to new positions spanning business development, strategy and operations to support its global expansion plans.
On the business development end, Venessa Koo has been named Vice President, Business Development for Hong Kong, Taiwan, the Philippines and Vietnam; Teo Junrong has been appointed Vice President, Business Development for Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia; while Thomas Lamson takes up the role of Vice President, Business Development and Product and Technical Services for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
As Managing Director for China, Joseph Wong, is tasked with driving business development, as well as overseeing all aspects of Ascott’s operations in this market.
Steven Chan has been welcomed as Vice President, Global Franchise Services and Regional General Manager for Indochina, to identify strategic growth opportunities and drive operational excellence, while Sophie Mougel takes on another strategic role as Vice President, Strategy and Regional General Manager for the Philippines and Malaysia, to tap into new opportunities in these markets.
“The appointment of these industry veterans to our business development team signals our commitment to invest in top talent to build Ascott’s growth ecosystem and establish Ascott as the operator of choice for lodging property owners around the world,” said Ascott Chief Growth Officer, Serena Lim.
“With each of them focusing on a key region, Ascott is now better positioned to penetrate deeper into existing markets and make headway in new markets through targeted growth strategies.
“Leveraging Ascott’s diverse portfolio of brands, wide range of accommodation options and extensive global network, we are confident of offering customised solutions that deliver sustained value to owners.”
Ascott Chief Strategy Officer, Wong Kar Ling said these leaders will help the business to drive commercial performance in key markets while pursuing strategic growth initiatives including mergers and acquisitions, transformation and partnerships.
“Ascott has embarked on a transformative journey to become a global leader in hospitality, and we are actively looking for new opportunities to stay ahead and elevate our position in the ever-evolving industry,” Ling said.
“We are committed to strengthening Ascott’s competitive edge to continue delivering on exceptional stay experiences for our guests, strong value and returns for our owners, as well as attractive career opportunities for our associates.”