Michelle Glasson promoted to general manager at GEMS Event Management Australia
After more than two decades with GEMS Event Management, Michelle Glasson has been promoted to general manager, as the company’s founder and managing director, Julie McGraw moves away from daily operations.
“After more than 30 years in the industry, it’s time for me to gradually step back from day-to-day management,” said McGraw.
“I could not think of anyone better than Michelle to take the reins and lead the company into the future. Her experience, vision and passion for the industry are second to none.”
Glasson said she was “honoured” to take on the GM role.
“Having spent more than 20 years with the business, I know the values and commitment that have made GEMS successful,” said Glasson.
“I’m excited to build on that foundation and to guide the company into a strong future for our clients, partners and team.”
McGraw will remain as managing director, but Glasson will gain greater influence over the future of the business.
New GM announced for Australia’s inaugural 25hours Hotel
Sydney local Jake Guilfoyle has been announced as the opening general manager for the 109-room 25hours Hotel The Olympia in Sydney’s inner city Paddington neighbourhood.
Guilfoyle joined the property last month, having supported the rebranding of Hyde Melbourne Place since moving to Ennismore in May.
Prior to joining the lifestyle hotel group, which is in a joint venture with Accor, Guilfoyle spent more than a decade with EVT, the majority of which was with the QT brand.
During his time with QT, Guilfoyle held leadership positions at QT Sydney and QT Falls Creek, as well as playing a key role in the opening of QT Singapore last year.
“Jake embodies the spirit of 25hours – bold, creative and deeply connected to community,” said Ennismore’s executive vice president for Asia Pacific, Sylvain Pasdeloup.
“His track record of launching and elevating lifestyle hotels is impressive and I’m looking forward to seeing him bring that energy to our first Australian venue.
“With Jake at the helm, 25hours Hotel The Olympia will be more than a hotel – it will be a cultural hub for travellers and the neighbourhood.”
The hotel is set to open on September 25 and will include four restaurants and bars alongside meeting space.
“I’m excited to be launching the very first 25hours Hotel in Australia and its four venues,” said Guilfoyle.
“I grew up in Sydney and to lead a hotel that celebrates individuality, creativity and history in my hometown is very special.
“We’re building something that lasts, a full experience that not only travellers, but locals will seek out, and at the heart of it all, I look forward to leading a fun, energetic team who bring that sense of joy and personality to every guest interaction.”
Guilfoyle is the third general manager for the property, with Silvia Kypriotis and Jeremy Colahan each having spent time in the role in the pre-opening period. Kypriotis moved on to Pullman Quay Grand Sydney, while Colahan has stayed within the Ennismore family, moving north to oversee the just-opened Mondrian Gold Coast.
