From left: Mark Kirby, Mattheos Georgiou and Paul Baker
Kerzner makes key appointments with new brand verticals
DUBAI, 3 hours, 55 minutes ago
Kerzner International has announced two significant leadership appointments as part of a new brand management structure that is designed to position Kerzner for continued growth and success.
This evolution establishes three distinct brand verticals, each reporting directly to Kerzner International CEO Philippe Zuber, as the company continues to advance as an organisation and expand its global footprint.
Brand Verticals
Kerzner is renowned for creating pioneering brands, from Atlantis, to the ultra-luxury One&Only Resorts, and recently an industry-first with the launch of SIRO, the ultimate fitness and recovery hotel.
The new structure will see an enhanced focus on brand verticals, with One&Only, Atlantis and SIRO/Rare Finds being led by a divisional head, dedicated to delivering an outstanding guest experience, rooted in the identity and values of each unique brand.
This focused, brand-led approach ensures that each one-of-a-kind brand within the Kerzner group is protected and enhanced, it allows greater agility in responding to industry changes, and facilitates continued creativity and innovation.
The appointment of Mark Kirby, promotion of Mattheos Georgiou, and welcoming of Paul Baker, to lead each of the divisions, also underscores Kerzner’s commitment to strong leadership, as their extensive experience and proven track records will be invaluable in steering their teams towards achieving the company’s strategic objectives.
"We are focused on fostering exceptional leadership that drives our brands forward,” said Zuber. “The appointments of Mark Kirby as President of One&Only and Mattheos Georgiou as Senior Vice President of SIRO and Rare Finds, as well as Paul Baker’s role as President of Atlantis, are pivotal to our vision for Kerzner International’s future growth, creating a corporate structure primed for the strategic expansion of our portfolio and the ongoing pursuit of excellence. Kerzner is renowned for creating trailblazing hospitality experiences that disrupt the sector, and these strategic appointments underscore our commitment to protect and enhance our innovative brands, demonstrating our dedication to nurturing talent and driving sustainable growth, positioning Kerzner for continued success in the dynamic hospitality landscape."
Mark Kirby appointed as President of One&Only
Kirby will join Kerzner International as President of One&Only, reporting directly to Zuber effective January 6, 2025. Kirby brings over 25 years of exceptional leadership experience in the hospitality industry, with a proven track record of operational excellence, strategic growth, and delivering transformative guest experiences.
Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer and Head of Hospitality at Emaar Hospitality Group, where he oversaw a diverse portfolio of over 30 hotels, residences, and leisure clubs across the UAE, GCC, and international markets. His tenure was marked by the successful development and opening of multiple hotels and the expansion of the group’s international footprint, including flagship properties under renowned brands such as Armani Hotels & Resorts, Address Hotels + Resorts, Palace Hotels + Resorts, and Vida Hotels & Resorts.
As President of One&Only, Kirby will oversee the brand’s global portfolio, spearheading its expansion into both established and emerging markets, and enhancing its reputation for unmatched, one-of-a-kind experiences.
Mattheos Georgiou promoted
Last month, Georgiou was promoted to Senior Vice President, SIRO and Rare Finds. Since joining Kerzner International as Global Vice President of Operations, Georgiou has played a pivotal role in enhancing global operational standards, positioning Kerzner for sustained success.
Georgiou’s collaborative nature and unwavering commitment to quality have been instrumental in elevating the guest experience and supporting internal growth. His leadership has led to the promotion of several Resort Managers to General Managers, reflecting his outstanding performance and ability to shape the future of SIRO and Rare Finds. Under his guidance, both brands will continue to expand their global footprint while maintaining their unique identities.
Paul Baker at the helm of Atlantis
Baker, a hospitality leader, joined Kerzner in August, to spearhead the iconic Atlantis brand. With nearly 20 years of international experience, he brings an abundance of knowledge and expertise to Atlantis Resorts. His impressive career in hospitality and entertainment, including key markets such as Las Vegas, USA, Malaysia and Macau, China, is a testament to his leadership skills. Baker's extensive knowledge of managing and leading teams in diverse cultural and complex operational landscapes uniquely positions him to grow the Atlantis brand to even greater heights. – TradeArabia News Service