Keith BarrKeith Barr will take up the new role of Chief Commercial Officer, effective from 1 June, 2013. The role takes responsibility for IHG’s global sales, marketing and brands functions, to drive consistent brand strategies across all geographies and leverage IHG’s scale and systems to deliver continued industry outperformance. In his current role as Chief Executive, Greater China, Keith has been instrumental in driving outstanding operating results and building an industry-leading market position and pipeline for IHG in the region. Keith has also overseen the development and launch of IHG’s unique upscale hotel brand, specially designed for Chinese consumers, HUALUXETM Hotels & Resorts. Keith joined IHG as Vice President of Sales and Revenue Management in early 2000 and has since held a number of roles including Vice President of Operations for midscale brands in North America, Vice President of Operations for the Holiday Inn brand in North America and Chief Operating Officer for Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific. Keith has led IHG’s Greater China region since November 2008 and has been a member of the group’s Executive Committee since April 2011. Prior to joining IHG, Keith held several senior positions at Bristol Hotels and Resorts which was acquired by IHG in 2000.