Appointments

Sabrina Abdullah has been promoted to Country Director of Human Resources at Marriott International, Malaysia

Sabrina's extensive experience in leading diverse teams brings a profound understanding of Human Resources, embodying Marriott's core values of Putting People First and a dedication to nurturing local talent. Her approach prioritises associates' well-being, professional growth, and an inclusive workplace culture, aligning Marriott's global values with the unique needs of the Malaysian workforce. Sabrina's initiatives for the year will see her continuing to elevate Marriott's reputation as an employer of choice, creating opportunities for local talent to thrive within the hospitality industry.

Patti Cameron has been promoted to Senior Director of Talent Acquisition at Concord Hospitality

Concord Hospitality, the award-winning hotel management and development company currently operating over 140 hotels across North America, is pleased to announce the promotion of Patti Cameron to Senior Director of Talent Acquisition. Since joining Concord, Cameron has been a cornerstone of the team, showcasing unparalleled dedication in attracting, hiring and retaining top-tier talent. Her leadership has helped foster a workforce of outstanding caliber, building dynamic, high-performing teams that form the backbone of Concord Hospitality.

Sophie Mestiri has been appointed as Chief Human Resources Officer at Adagio

Adagio, the European leader in aparthotels, announces the appointment of Sophie Mestiri as Chief Human Resources Officer and member of the Executive Committee. With extensive expertise in human resources management and organizational transformation, Sophie Mestiri will play a key role in implementing initiatives required to achieve Adagio's strategic plan.

Keisha Smith has been appointed as EVP and Chief People and Culture Officer at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts

Four Seasons, the world's leading luxury hospitality company, announces the appointment of Keisha Smith as Executive Vice President and Chief People and Culture Officer, effective January 6, 2025. Based at the company's corporate office in Miami, Keisha joins the Executive Leadership Team and reports directly to Four Seasons President and CEO Alejandro Reynal.

Wissam Beiruty has been appointed as Area Director of Human Resources for Dubai and Northern Emirates at Rotana

Amwaj Rotana has appointed Wissam Beiruty as area director of human resources, bringing over 20 years of experience at Rotana to this pivotal role. Wissam's extensive background in human resources, developed across multiple properties in the UAE and beyond, positions him to continue supporting operational properties while taking on expanded responsibilities.

Alexandra Valentin has been appointed as Vice President of Talent and Culture at LionGrove

Prior to joining LionGrove, Valentin held several key positions, including Corporate Director of Culture Transformation at The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center. In this role, she spearheaded the integration of a comprehensive leadership development strategy for leaders worldwide, benchmarking best business practices and enhancing the company's talent management. Previously, as Regional Area Director of Performance Development at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC, Valentin was responsible for implementing critical corporate-wide operational strategies that elevated leadership effectiveness, employee engagement, and talent retention across 13 hotels.

Diana Castrillon has been appointed as Vice President of Human Resources at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

Today, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa has announced the appointment of Diana Castrillon as Vice President of Human Resources. Castrillon brings extensive experience from MGM Resorts International, where she most recently served as Executive Director of Employee Relations Operations, overseeing employee relations for more than 62,000 employees across 11 Las Vegas and eight regional properties.

Johanna Kent has been appointed as Chief People Officer at Virgin Hotels

Johanna Kent joins the executive team of Virgin Hotels Collection with over 27 years' experience, where she has cultivated exceptional employee experiences for some of the world's most recognized brands. Her career has been marked by achievements in talent acquisition, leadership development, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Most recently at Virgin Orbit, she led the People & Culture team, driving a 40% growth in headcount and successfully navigated complex challenges including a SPAC transaction. At Mattel, Kent spearheaded global initiatives such as a large-scale reorganization, the acquisition and integration of a $175 million company, and provided front line HR support for over 1800 professional employees. Her proven ability to align HR strategies with business objectives and foster positive workplace cultures will be invaluable to Virgin Hotels Collection's continued success.

Johanna Kent has been appointed as Chief People Officer at Virgin Hotels Collection

Johanna Kent joins the executive team of Virgin Hotels Collection with over 27 years' experience, where she has cultivated exceptional employee experiences for some of the world's most recognized brands. Her career has been marked by achievements in talent acquisition, leadership development, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Most recently at Virgin Orbit, she led the People & Culture team, driving a 40% growth in headcount and successfully navigated complex challenges including a SPAC transaction. At Mattel, Kent spearheaded global initiatives such as a large-scale reorganization, the acquisition and integration of a $175 million company, and provided front line HR support for over 1800 professional employees. Her proven ability to align HR strategies with business objectives and foster positive workplace cultures will be invaluable to Virgin Hotels Collection's continued success.

Alexis Stevens has been promoted to Director of Talent Development at Hotel Equities Group, LLC

Alexis Stevens has been promoted to Director of Talent Development. Stevens joined HE in 2013 as a front desk associate and has since earned positions of increased responsibility, including General Manager and Talent Development Manager. Her extensive experience at all operational levels uniquely positions her to lead learning and development for aspiring professionals. In addition to being a graduate of HE's Management Development Program (MDP) herself, since joining the Talent team in July 2021, Stevens has overseen and enhanced enterprise-wide talent development programs to better serve the growing organization. She has also masterfully refined the college/university recruitment and placement process to maximize opportunities for each candidate. In her new expanded role, Stevens now serves as a department head with international responsibility.

Derrick Williams has been appointed as Director of Human Resources at Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Derrick Williams has dedicated nearly 21 years to the human resources department within Marriott Hotels. Most recently, he was the Market Director of Human Resources for the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center and Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Detroit. Prior to that, Williams held the Director of Human Resources position at The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit where he successfully led the team through the many activities involved in the integration with the Marriott brand. Williams began his career journey at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel as an intern where he worked his way up to Human Resources Manager and eventually Assistant Director of Human Resources. Williams is a graduate of Western Illinois University where he holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management. He enjoys traveling with his wife, Shameka, and sons Jay, Will and Jacob where they love spending time outdoors and in the water.