Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas announces key marketing appointments
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas has appointed Kate Leff as Director of Marketing and promoted Alina Polishuk to the position of Marketing Manager.
Leff takes over from Deb McDiarmid, who relocated to Sydney to take on the executive leadership role of Area Director of Marketing, Australia New Zealand and Pacific for Marriott International.
Tasked with leading the marketing and promotion of Tropical North Queensland’s largest premium award-winning resort, Leff and her team aim to further drive the resort’s profile to attract domestic and international visitors to the world-heritage listed region.
Bringing more than 15 years’ experience in wellness and hospitality, Leff has a strong track record in strategic planning, financial management and marketing excellence.
She has spent more than a decade representing some of the industry’s most distinctive wellness properties in South East Asia, including Kamalaya, Amatara, The Barai and Revivo.
“I congratulate Kate on her appointment and Alina on her promotion as she steps up into her new role as marketing manager,” said Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas General Manager, Steve Molnar.
“I look forward to working with Kate and Alina as we continue to elevate the profile of Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort with our local and international audiences.
“Kate’s career journey has been marked by her dedication and passion, and we are confident that she will inspire our team and elevate our marketing initiatives to drive solid results for the business.”
Commenting on the appointment and her move to Port Douglas, Leff said, “I am excited to relocate to Tropical North Queensland and join the team at Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas.”
“The resort is uniquely located next to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites with outstanding facilities including the resort’s swimming pools, dining options, event facilities, exceptional service and 294 beautifully appointed rooms – many with direct pool access,” she added.
“I am energized by this truly incredible property and look forward to leading the team with a blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication.”
Pan Pacific Orchard welcomes new GM
Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore has welcomed Jason Leung as General Manager, effective January 27, 2025.
Over two decades in the hospitality industry, Leung has held key leadership positions at Marriott International properties such as The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, Le Méridien Singapore, Sentosa, and Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel.
His key achievements include overseeing major renovation projects, winning the prestigious Marriott Mustang Award in 2018, and being a finalist for the Stelliers General Manager of the Year Award in 2020, further cementing his reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality.
During the pandemic, Leung relocated to Brisbane, where he served as General Manager, Sales and Hospitality at Brisbane Racing Club, leading the hospitality division through a period of operational transformation.
“Luxury hospitality today transcends traditional comfort; it’s about creating authentic, meaningful experiences that allow guests to reconnect, reset, and fully embrace the present moment,” Leung said.
“At Pan Pacific Orchard, a highly awarded hotel recognised for its exceptional design and guest experience, we have an incredible opportunity to build on what has been achieved and further transform the way we delight our guests. I am excited to lead this exceptional team in shaping the next chapter of hospitality in the heart of Singapore.”
Brad Morgan named GM of Mindil Beach Casino Resort
Darwin’s Mindil Beach Casino Resort has appointed experienced hospitality executive, Brad Morgan as General Manager, subject to regulatory approval.
Effective March 3, 2025, Morgan takes over from Sean Knights, who is taking up another position within the industry in Asia.
The appointment marks a return for Morgan who previously served as General Manager at the property from 2010-2014, prior to its purchase by Delaware North in 2019.
“I am looking forward to playing a leading role in supporting Delaware North’s aim of injecting further investment into Mindil Beach Casino Resort and creating more local jobs, to maintain the status of the business as one of the largest private-sector employers in Darwin,” Morgan said.
“Since I last worked at the property, I have always kept a close eye on Mindil Beach Casino Resort because of my previous connection.
“I am excited to once again lead what is an iconic Northern Territory business.”
Morgan has previously managed three casinos, five of the largest and most successful clubs in Queensland, and has been Chief Executive Officer of the Darwin Turf Club. Since 2022, he has served as Managing Director of the Dixon Hospitality Group, which operates pubs in Darwin and Adelaide.
“Brad’s deep knowledge of the local market, combined with a proven track record of generating strong commercial returns while maintaining a focus on compliance and community engagement, makes him an outstanding addition to our team,” said Delaware North Managing Director – Australia/New Zealand, Gary Brown.
“As one of the world’s leading tourism and hospitality companies with operations across the globe, Delaware North is strongly committed to being an integral part of local communities where our businesses are located, including Mindil Beach Casino Resort.”