The appointment follows Best Western International taking management control of the world-famous brand on June 1 from the Motel Federation of Australia.

His first few weeks have been spent bedding down the operational transition as BWI moves to a Property Direct Relationship with hotels and resorts in Australia and New Zealand.

Perry says he’s excited about the opportunity.  “Best Western has a positive position in Australia and New Zealand with more than 100 properties and tremendous customer loyalty. 

“It’s a fantastic organisation, great history, great people, great hotels. Many of the head office staff have been here for a long time – same with the hotels – and we really have an excellent foundation.

“I want to add to that and to give a sense of vision, leveraging the strength of the Best Western brand and its people to expand the business.”

Immediate goals are to increase the level of services Best Western provides properties such as increasing revenue management capabilities and growing Best Western Rewards, already one of the best programs of its kind.

For Perry, the Best Western role is the latest step in a varied and high-profile career that has included leadership roles in travel, tourism, hospitality, media and technology.

Perry was most recently Chief Executive Officer, Inland NSW while previous roles include CEO See Australia, CEO Traveland, Managing Director Classifieds at Fairfax Media and Managing Director Utell International.

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