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UK: Iconic Hotels & Resorts has named Michelle Walder as group director of operations, strengthening its senior leadership team as the hospitality group prepares for its next phase of growth and expansion.
Walder brings more than 28 years of experience across leading luxury and lifestyle hospitality brands to Iconic. Her career spans across Europe and North America with senior leadership roles at Hyatt, Standard Hotels, Sydell Group and André Balazs Properties. Most recently, as head of operations for Hyatt’s lifestyle group EAME, she oversaw operational performance and supported the European expansion of Standard Hotels, Thompson and Andaz.
In this new role, Walder will oversee operational performance across the Iconic portfolio, working closely with hotel leadership teams and continue to develop the group’s culture and service standards. She will also oversee operations across properties including The Mayfair Townhouse, 11 Cadogan Gardens, The Chelsea Townhouse, Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, The Lensbury, The Mole Resort and Strand Palace.
“Iconic Hotels & Resorts has built an exceptional collection of distinctive hotels and resorts. Joining the business at such an exciting moment in its evolution was a hugely compelling opportunity,” said Walder. “With significant investment in people, infrastructure and growth, and a clear ambition for the future, the group is entering a transformative new chapter. I am delighted to be joining the team and look forward to working alongside colleagues across the portfolio to help shape the next phase of Iconic Hotels & Resorts’ expansion and success.”
Walder’s appointment marks Iconic’s latest step in strengthening its senior leadership team, following the appointment of its chief operating officer and director of people and culture earlier this year.
“Michelle is one of the most respected lifestyle hospitality operators in the industry and brings exceptional experience leading complex, high-profile hotels and portfolios across international markets,” said Shan Kanagasingham, COO at Iconic Hotels & Resorts. “Her track record of building high-performing teams, strengthening operational excellence and creating outstanding guest experiences makes her a fantastic addition to our leadership team.”
Highlights:
• Iconic Hotels & Resorts has appointed Michelle Walder as group director of operations, strengthening its senior leadership team as the hospitality group prepares for its next phase of growth and expansion
• Walder brings more than 28 years of international luxury and lifestyle hospitality experience, including senior leadership roles at Hyatt, Standard Hotels, Sydell Group and André Balazs Properties
• Most recently, Walder served as head of operations for Hyatt’s lifestyle group in EAME, overseeing operational performance and supporting the European expansion of Standard Hotels, Thompson and Andaz
• In her new role, Walder will oversee operational performance and service standards across Iconic’s hotel portfolio, including The Mayfair Townhouse, 11 Cadogan Gardens, The Chelsea Townhouse, Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, The Lensbury, The Mole Resort and Strand Palace
• The appointment follows other senior leadership hires at Iconic Hotels & Resorts, including a chief operating officer and a director of people and culture earlier in the year.
• COO Shan Kanagasingham highlighted Walder’s experience in operational excellence, team development and guest experience
