Elie Maalouf has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer at IHG Hotels & Resorts
IHG today announces that Keith Barr has informed the Board of his decision to step down from his role as Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and from the IHG Board. Keith intends to return with his family to the US. His final day as CEO will be 30 June, after which he will remain available to support and advise the business until the end of 2023.
Keith will be succeeded by Elie Maalouf, a member of IHG's Board and Executive Committee, who has led IHG's Americas business as regional CEO for the past eight years. Elie will take up his new position on 1 July and will be based in the UK to lead the business.
Keith has been a part of IHG for more than 30 years and was appointed to the Board and as CEO in July 2017. Executing a clear strategy, he has transformed IHG to position the company for long-term sustainable growth, surpassing 6,000 open hotels, broadening the portfolio with the addition of seven brands in six years, significantly investing in IHG's digital capabilities and loyalty offer, embarking on a 10-year responsible business strategy, and progressing in key areas of DE&I. During Keith's tenure, IHG has also successfully navigated a global pandemic and continued to grow its footprint and reputation with key stakeholders around the world.
Elie joined IHG as Americas CEO in February 2015. Under his leadership, the region's estate has grown from approximately 3,700 hotels to more than 4,350. Elie led the delivery of record profits, oversaw the launch of new brands and formats, and strengthened how the business drives value for our hotel owners. Elie has spent several decades in the global hospitality sector and has a breadth of experience spanning hotel development, branding, finance, real estate and operations management, as well as food and beverage expertise, with a strong track record of delivering exceptional results. Elie has lived and worked internationally including in Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and the US, and speaks four languages.
To support Elie and Chief Financial Officer Michael Glover and to help ensure a smooth transition, Keith will remain available to the business over the rest of 2023. A process is underway to appoint a successor to Elie as Americas CEO.