Minor Hotels has announced the appointment of Nicholas Smith as Vice President of Operations for its Asia division. In this role, Smith will oversee the company’s growing portfolio in the region and lead a team of senior leaders across Asia.
Smith brings over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He began his journey with the Shangri-La Group in 2008 as a Food & Beverage Manager in Malaysia. Over the next 15 years, he held various senior leadership roles across Shangri-La and Kerry Hotels in China, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and Malaysia. His positions included residence, hotel, and general manager. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Food & Beverage and Operations for MEIA — which includes the Middle East, India, Indian Ocean, Europe, and the Americas. In that role, he was responsible for the performance of 17 properties.
Smith’s career also spans notable roles with leading hotel groups such as Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, and the Savoy Group, in both London and the United States. Additionally, he played a key role in launching Sindalah Island — NEOM’s first luxury island and yacht club destination in Saudi Arabia.
Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, the parent company of Minor Hotels, welcomed the appointment. “We are delighted to welcome Nicholas to Minor Hotels at such a pivotal time in our journey,” he said. “As a seasoned hospitality professional with a proven record of delivering exceptional guest experiences, Nicholas brings valuable expertise to our operations. Asia is a major growth region for us, with plans to add more than 100 properties by the end of 2027. His leadership will help us achieve operational excellence and support our ambitious expansion plans.”
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