Ahead of an October opening for voco Gosford on the New South Wales Central Coast, a general manager, an executive assistant manager, a director of sales and marketing and other leadership roles have been announced for the property.
Bjoern Noeldner is the pre-opening general manager for voco Gosford, moving over from another IHG property, InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, where he was on secondment as food and beverage director.
In addition to IHG, Noeldner has worked for several international hotel brands in Australia and around the world, including Raffles, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Kempinski Hotels and Fairmont Hotels.
“Being part of the launch team at voco Gosford is an incredible journey that continues to evolve,” said Noeldner.
“At the heart of this journey is our incredible pre-opening team that I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with.
“Together, we’re developing something truly special, driven by a shared passion for excellence and unstuffy hospitality.
“This project is not just about opening a hotel, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a destination that combines global standards with the character and charm of the Central Coast region.
“It’s exciting to be at the forefront of such a transformative project, knowing that voco Gosford is set to be a benchmark for premium yet welcoming hospitality in the Central Coast.”
His executive assistant manager is Natalie McGready, who joined voco Gosford from The Star Sydney. She also has experience at Ovolo Woolloomooloo, Novotel Sydney Darling Square and Hilton Hotels.
Meanwhile, Kristina Ayton has been helming sales and marketing for the hotel since late 2024, moving over from racecourse The Entertainment Grounds in Gosford, where she has held various roles since 2018, including chief operating officer.
“Being part of the pre-opening team of this incredible project is unlike anything I’ve experienced before,” said Ayton.
“There’s a real sense of purpose and excitement in knowing we’re not just opening a hotel – we’re creating an entirely new destination that will reshape how people experience the Central Coast.”
Nicole Curran has also joined the property as its human resources manager while Janendra Rama is its financial controller.
The hotel will offer 130 rooms in addition to several event spaces, including a rooftop ballroom.
Down south, Crowne Plaza Geelong has found its pre-opening director of sales and marketing with the appointment of Karen Jackson.
Jackson, like the property’s recently announced general manager, John Dickson, moves over from Novotel Geelong, where she was director of sales and marketing for over a decade.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining IHG and Plenary as part of the pre-opening of Crowne Plaza Geelong on the waterfront, and to contribute to such a significant development for the region,” said Jackson.
“As a proud local, I’m passionate about showcasing everything Geelong has to offer and bringing a premium hotel offering to the city’s growing tourism and events sector.
“I look forward to continuing my engagement with the community and welcoming guests to experience this exciting new hotel.”
The 200-room Crowne Plaza Geelong sits within the under-construction convention centre precinct. Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is expected to open next July, offering a 1,000-seat theatre and 3,700m2 of flexible event space.
