Following Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts’ announcement of the opening of its fourth hotel in Hong Kong, the new property, Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong, officially announces the appointment of Nicholas Smith as general manager. Smith was instrumental in the opening of Kerry Hotel, Pudong, Shanghai in 2011 and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, paving the way for the brand’s success in the region.
“People no longer look just for accommodation and dining facilities in a hotel. In fact, we are here to be different. We would like to be the friendly and helpful neighbour who will always be there to satisfy a variety of needs for the residents nearby. Instead of being a newcomer, we would like to be a familiar destination as comfortable and welcoming as home, where guests feel at ease and connected to the community,” said Smith on Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong’s approach. “Residents and visitors alike will enjoy our facilities and intuitive services, from expansive harbour-view open spaces, interactive sports and recreation to family vacation packages and simply a venue to recharge and refresh.”
Smith is an avid outdoor enthusiast and a fervent supporter of outreach initiatives. He considers it a great accomplishment to have spearheaded Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen’s “Ride for Hope”, a cycling campaign for the benefit of a community in southern China. An avid cyclist himself, he was able to create awareness through “pedal power” and raised a substantial amount that assisted in the water supply and education of the said community.
Community service and environmental initiatives will undoubtedly be an important commitment for Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong. “With the proximity to a very established community, a wide range of facilities, the abundance of space and a house of passionate individuals, we are ready and eager to contribute and reach out to our neighbours and to anyone who connects with us,” said Smith.
Smith has been with the Shangri-La family for several years. Before arriving in Hong Kong, he was previously the general manager of Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu, where he found inspiration from continuous opportunities to interact with guests and colleagues.
He began his career as a management trainee and has since experienced various aspects of hotel management, including food and beverage, event sales and banquet operations. Apart from China, he has also held key positions in Kota Kinabalu, Florida, London, Gloucestershire, Boston, Antalya and the Middle East.
