Sofitel GM swaps properties
With the general manager of the 590-room Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, Greg Brady, retiring, the leader of Sydney’s other Sofitel property, Sam Panetta, has taken over at the Darling Harbour hotel which sits alongside the city’s convention centre, ICC Sydney.
Panetta spent nearly a decade with Sofitel Sydney Wentworth – in two separate stints – first as hotel manager for nearly four and a half years, starting in 2010, and then as general manager from October 2019.
In his most recent role, which he wrapped up this month, he oversaw a $70 million refurbishment of Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, the results of which were launched late last year.
Between his two roles with Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, Panetta led two other Accor properties – Pullman Magenta Shores on the NSW Central Coast and Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour.
“Sam Panetta personifies so many of the Sofitel brand values and has been instrumental in the success of Sofitel Sydney Wentworth over many years,” said Sofitel’s vice president of operations in the Pacific, David Fraser.
“Sam is renowned for cultivating strong teams and we are confident that under his stewardship, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour will continue to reach new heights.”
QT Auckland’s new GM
QT Auckland has a new general manager, following the departure of Jodi Brown for Accor’s recently rebranded Hyde Melbourne Place property.
While Brown has moved back to Australia, QT Auckland’s new leader, Michael Stamboulidis, has done the reverse, relocating to Auckland from regional NSW where he has been GM of QT Newcastle since its preopening period, joining the property in January 2022.
Stamboulidis held previous roles with BridgeClimb Sydney and hospitality group Merivale before joining EVT, owners of the QT brand, more than eight years ago. With EVT, he gained experience as director of food and beverage and as a hotel manager prior to joining QT Newcastle.
“Michael lives and breathes QT. Personable and an empathetic leader, Michael fosters a collaborative culture and brand pride within the team,” said QT Hotels & Resorts general manager, David Sude.
“His passion for food and beverage will amplify QT Auckland’s standout reputation with signature hospitality offerings, Esther and Rooftop at QT. Michael brings a stellar reputation, high standards and infectious positivity — he’s truly one of the industry’s leading hospitality personalities.”
As well as having a few smaller event spaces, the 150-room QT Auckland is well placed for those attending events at both the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) when it opens next February and the Viaduct Events Centre on Auckland Harbour.
“Staying within the QT family feels like a natural next step,” said Stamboulidis.
“I’ve seen firsthand the creativity, heart and dedication that goes into crafting those unexpected, unrequested moments of joy for our guests. Rich in cultural diversity and with a strong sense of community, I can’t wait to immerse myself in Auckland’s hospitality scene and bring a fresh perspective to the role.”
