InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has appointed Paul Walters as General Manager of InterContinental Sydney Double Bay, Sydney’s newest luxury hotel.
Sydney native, Paul, who will relocate from London to take up the role, has 30 years’ experience in luxury hotels and resorts, including over 15 years as a General Manager. Paul joins IHG from the Langham Hospitality Group. He was most recently General Manager of their flagship property, The Langham London, where he played a key role in positioning it as one of the top ten luxury London hotels. Prior to that Paul was Vice President, Brands for the company based in Hong Kong.
Paul has had a successful career both in Australia, where he was General Manager of the W Sydney, and internationally across Asia and Europe in large scale luxury hotels and boutique operations.
Karin Sheppard, Chief Operating Officer, Australasia, Japan & Korea, and Franchising for AMEA, said: “Paul has extensive experience in the luxury hotel market and will bring a wealth of knowledge to the role. Having held several positions overseeing food and beverage operations during his career, Paul’s skills will be integral to ensuring both IHG and the hotel delivers great dining and bar experiences, as well as hotel stays, for our guests and visitors.
“We’re thrilled Paul will be leading the team at InterContinental Sydney Double Bay as the hotel continues to go from strength to strength. I know he will be a key part of IHG’s story in Australia going forward.”
Commenting on his appointment, Paul said: “IHG is a leading global hotel company and I’ve always admired their culture and people ethos. InterContinental Sydney Double Bay offers something unlike any other Sydney hotel with its understated style, luxury and location. I’m really looking forward to becoming a part of the team in July.”
Sydney’s newest luxury address, InterContinental Sydney Double Bay opened in November, 2014. Set in picturesque Double Bay village and in close proximity to the CBD, this intimate bayside retreat features 140 guest room and suites, Rooftop Pool & Lounge, Stockroom restaurant, Stillery gin bar, world-class concierge and an array of indoor and outdoor event and meeting spaces.
Founded in 1946, there are now 179 InterContinental Hotels and Resorts globally with 51 further hotels due to open in the next three to five years. Australia is currently home to five, with a sixth, InterContinental Perth, due to open in early 2017.
IHG currently has 38 hotels and resorts under the InterContinental, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn brands across Australia, New Zealand, French Polynesia, Fiji, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.
