Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong Appoints Leadership Team Ahead of Opening

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Australia, Melbourne, Victoria. September 12, 2023

Ahead of its much-anticipated opening on 8 September 2023, Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong has announced a dynamic leadership team to elevate the guest experience at Victoria's newest gem.

Situated in the heart of Geelong, just an hour's drive from Melbourne, the IHG Hotels & Resorts property will offer 180 modern and spacious rooms and suites, serving as an ideal base to explore the Bellarine and Surf Coast.

As the city's first new-build hotel in more than 20 years, it is part of Franzé Developments' new residential and commercial hub, Geelong Quarter.

Top talent on the F&B front

Executive Chef Migo Razon has been working closely alongside award-winning celebrity chef Adrian Richardson to craft a fresh and exciting menu for the highly anticipated restaurant, Maestro.

Hailing from the Philippines, and an alumnus of the Centre for Culinary Arts in Manila, this accomplished chef brings an impressive breadth of experience to Maestro. His journey spans working in Coffs Harbour at the esteemed Bonville Golf Resort's restaurant, which has clinched the coveted Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat Award twice, as well as leading the kitchen at Pacific Bay Resort. As Executive Chef, he has enjoyed roles at Double Tree by Hilton Melbourne, and most recently at Sheraton Melbourne Hotel. Chef Razon says he hopes to build on central Geelong's reputation as a sought-after dining scene with Maestro.

Seasoned hospitality professional from Scotland, Dave Wilson, also joins the team as Food & Beverage Manager.

Wilson's hospitality career began early at the age of 16, evolving from luggage delivery to pre-opening management roles at renowned establishments, including Edinburgh's famous Scotsman Hotel. With an impressive 12-year tenure at the Vue Group in Melbourne, Mr Wilson transitioned to Little Creatures Geelong Brewery as Operations Manager for three years, making him perfectly placed to bring his extensive knowledge of the local and national F&B scene to Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong.

Elevating guest experiences

Director of Sales & Marketing Stacey Cameron brings extensive hospitality and leadership experience to the new hotel and is also overseeing the conference & events team during the initial launch of the hotel.

Ms Cameron's career includes managing operations at Peppers Beach Club & Spa Palm Cove and orchestrating unforgettable events in Tropical North Queensland.

After spending eight years in New Zealand's picturesque South Island, Ms Cameron's return to her home city of Geelong coincides perfectly with the opening of Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong. Her insights and commitment to innovative marketing and business development campaigns will play a crucial role in shaping the hotel's identity and creating "magical moments".

Rounding out the team is Front Desk Manager Ariel Ying-Hsuan Wang, whose exceptional hospitality skills and unique international perspective will translate to outstanding guest experiences.

Born in Taiwan and raised in Brazil, Wang transitioned from a decade in retail to hospitality and her journey includes front office roles at Skye Suites and Hyatt Regency in Sydney, focusing on tailored guest experiences. Her commitment and dedication led to Ms Wang's recognition as a finalist for Hotel Rising Star at the Tourism Accommodation Australia NSW Awards for Excellence in 2022.General Manager Daniel Payne leads the team and has been overseeing the establishment of the hotel since mid-2022.

"We are committed to showcasing the outstanding offerings of this benchmark Holiday Inn property and contributing to the Geelong region's growing reputation as a premier destination for travellers," Mr Payne says.

"As such, we have dedicated our efforts to attracting exceptional talent with extensive hospitality experience, as well as knowledge of the local area. Their expertise and enthusiasm will ensure Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong provides an unparalleled experience for guests, setting new standards for hospitality in the region."