Dubai-based hospitality firm JA Resorts & Hotels has appointed Anthony Ross as the company’s new CEO.

The Australian hotelier and corporate strategist started his tenure in January with the established hospitality company known for offering ‘heartfelt hospitality’ and ‘casual luxury’ in the Middle East and Indian Ocean.

Ross has over 30 years’ industry leadership experience in the hospitality sector, spanning roles on multiple continents. Prior to joining JA Resorts & Hotels, he was CEO at the Indonesia-based Aryaduta Hotel Group and held the executive vice president position at Preferred Hotels & Resorts, where he oversaw 120 hotels in the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa region.

As a former unit general manager, in addition to developing and operating his own luxury lodge in New Zealand, Ross also contributes an ownership approach and in-depth understanding of hotel operations. Apart from managing independent hotels in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Australia, he spent several years with Swire Hotels where he subsequently became the group’s area general manager for China.

Ross holds a bachelor’s degree in business, catering and hotel management from Victoria University in Melbourne.

“The team has done a great job in delivering ‘Heartfelt Hospitality’ and ‘Casual Luxury’ across our diverse portfolio from the gorgeous JA Manafaru in the Maldives, to our Dubai resorts and Bateaux Dubai. We aim to enhance how our guests experience both brand values, expand and deepen our reach and eventually bring heartfelt hospitality to new destinations in the region and beyond.  Said the new CEO of JA Resorts & Hotels.

JA Resorts & Hotels comprehensively rebranded itself five years ago and has since entered two new international destinations, now operating properties in the UAE, Seychelles and Maldives. Its portfolio covers hotels, resorts, restaurants, leisure and sports facilities, event venues and a catering division. - TradeArabia News Service