Duncan O’Rourke, CEO of Accor for MEA APAC - Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, will continue to lead the region. The leadership structure will be supported by three Chief Operating Officers, Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer – Middle East, Africa and Turkey; Garth Simmons, Chief Operating Officer – Asia; and Adrian Williams appointed to the newly created role of Chief Operating Officer - Pacific, Premium, Midscale and Economy Division.
Accor the largest hotel operator in Australia and New Zealand, has undertaken a review of its leadership structure in the Pacific to further align its market leading performance across MEA APAC, whilst ensuring exceptional experiences for guests, owners, partners, and the wider community.
Duncan O’Rourke, CEO of Accor for MEA APAC - Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, will continue to lead the region. The leadership structure will be supported by three Chief Operating Officers for the Premium, Midscale and Economy Division across the region: Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer – Middle East, Africa and Turkey; Garth Simmons, Chief Operating Officer – Asia; and Adrian Williams appointed to the newly created role of Chief Operating Officer - Pacific, Premium, Midscale and Economy Division, effective from 15th January 2024, and will guide operations in the region.
Commenting on Adrian’s appointment, Duncan O’Rourke, CEO MEA APAC – Premium, Midscale and Economy Division at Accor, said that Adrian’s leadership would focus on driving profitable growth in the Pacific for its owners, "I am pleased to announce Adrian Williams' appointment to the newly created role of Chief Operating Officer for Accor in the Pacific.”
Adrian brings a wealth of experience as a prominent industry leader, with an impressive track record and commitment to operational excellence. Adrian holds a Masters in Marketing, and began his hospitality career at Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Canada and now has over 30 years of hotel operations and senior leadership experience.
Adrian has been an integral part of the Accor team for a number of years, holding various General Manager and Senior Leadership positions. His notable achievements include playing a vital role in the successful acquisition of Mantra Group in 2017.
In addition to his accomplishments within Accor, Adrian is deeply involved in guiding and advising the travel and accommodation industry. Currently, he serves as the co-chair of the Victorian advisory board for Accommodation Australia and as a Board Member of the Melbourne Convention Bureau.
Duncan said, “Adrian will focus on addressing the unique needs and requirements of our valued owners and driving profitable business growth. With his extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Adrian brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic insights. His leadership skills, passion for excellence, and commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences make him the perfect fit for this role. I have full confidence that our operations in the Pacific region will deliver exceptional results."
Adrian will lead a large team of senior Accor operations experts based across the region, focused on delivering operational excellence and growth for hotel owners. The team will be supported by leaders across Legal, Finance, Revenue Management, Talent & Culture, Commercial and IT.
In light of this business transformation, Sarah Derry, CEO Accor Pacific, has decided to step down in early 2024 and embark on a new journey outside Accor. During her seven year tenure with Accor, Sarah’s achievements include creating an award-winning HEARTIST culture in the Pacific, leading the successful integration of Mantra Group, and implementing crucial sustainability initiatives. Under Sarah’s leadership, Accor has successfully opened 30 hotels in the Pacific over the past two years. Sarah's departure is scheduled for the end of February 2024.
Sarah said, “I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the Accor team in the Pacific for their commitment and hard work, I am immensely proud of the achievements we have accomplished together. I am excited about the future, and I wish Accor continued success.”
Duncan O’Rourke said, “From her initial role as leading Talent & Culture to her appointment as CEO Accor Pacific in February 2022, Sarah has delivered an excellent performance. We thank Sarah for the positive impact and contribution that she has made during her time with Accor, and wish her every success in her future endeavours.”
From luxury to economy, Accor has 20 international brands across Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and French Polynesia, including Sofitel, MGallery, Art Series, Pullman, Swissôtel, Mövenpick, Grand Mercure, Peppers, The Sebel, Mantra, Handwritten Collection, Novotel, Mercure, Tribe, BreakFree, ibis, ibis Styles, ibis budget and Ennismore’s Mondrian and SO/.