Simon A. FrickerLe Méridien Chicago – Oakbrook Center, slated to open April 2014, announced the appointment of Simon A. Fricker to General Manager. Fricker joins with over 20 years of hospitality experience across world class hotel brands in Zurich, New York, Las Vegas and Miami. Born and raised in Switzerland, Fricker moved to the United States after graduating from an elite program at the Swiss Hotel Management School. His career excelled in Manhattan where he held several esteemed positions at renowned properties, including The Gramercy Park, an Ian Schrager hotel, The Peninsula and The St. Regis. In 2009 Fricker joined the opening team of the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas. The team made history when FORBES awarded triple Five Star designations, for each, the hotel, spa and restaurant. In 2011 Fricker repeated this success with the Mandarin Oriental Miami, including an AAA Five Diamond designation.