LONDON, UK, May 7, 2008. Hilton Hotels has announced the appointment of Mario Ferraro as the new General Manager of the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice, replacing former General Manager Paolo Biscioni.

Commenting on the appointment, Theo Kreutzer, Vice President Operations – Iberian Peninsula and Italy, said “We are delighted to welcome Mario to our world class Molino Stucky property. He has a proven track record of managing some of Italy’s leading luxury hotels, and I am confident that he will rise to the challenge of successfully managing one of our key European properties.”

With responsibility for more than 200 team members at the 380-room hotel, Ferraro will be focussing on the continued growth of leisure, corporate and meeting markets.

Mario Ferraro said, “I am thrilled to be joining the world’s most famous hotel brand and one of Venice’s most unique properties. Hilton Molino Stucky is a flagship hotel that combines a fascinating history with world-class accommodation and facilities. I am delighted to be inheriting such a great team and look forward to building on the hotel’s success as the premier location for travelers to this amazing destination.”

Born in Hamburg but of Italian nationality, Ferraro has over 20 years experience within the hospitality sector, having successfully managed a number of Italy’s leading hotels, including the Grand Hotel Santa Lucia and the prestigious San Domenico Palace in Taormina in Sicily.

Formerly a 19th-century flour mill, Hilton Molino Stucky Venice opened in June last year, following an award-winning four year restoration programme. The landmark building, occupying a prime waterside location on the Giudecca island, is Venice’s largest hotel and convention centre, offering panoramic views from the city’s only rooftop pool and bar.