Meet Capella Sydney’s new director of sales and marketing
Lucas Gimenez Polcheira has joined the 192-room luxury hotel Capella Sydney as its new head of sales and marketing. Alongside its room inventory, Capella Sydney also offers several intimate event spaces, the largest of which can seat 64.
Gimenez Polcheira moves over from Sofitel Sydney Wentworth where he’s spent the last six and a half years, most recently as the property’s commercial director.
Overall, he has more than 20 years of experience in senior roles in the hotel sector, working for the likes of Radisson and IHG Hotels & Resorts.
“Lucas’s deep experience in commercial strategy and his passion for innovation make him the ideal fit for Capella Sydney,” said Capella Sydney’s general manager, Marc von Arnim.
“His expertise in both sales and marketing, combined with his proven success in Sydney’s competitive luxury market, will be instrumental in building upon our recent recognition as ‘Best Luxury Hotel’ at the 2024 Luxury Travel Gold List Awards.
“This appointment further strengthens our position as Australia’s leading luxury hotel, as we continue to lead the way as masters in the craft of hospitality.”
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas recruits new director of marketing
The sprawling property with a big events offering in tropical north Queensland has appointed Kate Leff as its new director of marketing.
Leff has spent the last 12 years working in the hotel industry in Asia, primarily in Thailand, before making the move to Australia.
She has more than 15 years’ experience including in luxury and wellness resorts.
“I am excited to relocate to Tropical North Queensland and join the team at Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas,” said Leff.
“I am energised by this truly incredible property and look forward to leading the team with a blend of creativity, strategic thinking and unwavering dedication.”
Club Med hires new MICE account manager for the Pacific
Having been resort-side with various Club Med properties for over six years, including in event management roles, Manveer Ramdhian has joined the Sydney-based Club Med Pacific team as its new MICE account manager.
“My time in the resorts has given me invaluable insights into the essence of each destination – what makes them special, how they operate and how they can be tailored to create extraordinary experiences,” said Ramdhian.
“I’m excited to use this knowledge to help businesses craft impactful meetings, events and incentive programs across our incredible Club Med resorts.”
Ramdhian will be an important connector between event clients, resorts and the Club Med’s corporate offices.
“Our meetings and events sector saw significant growth last year with our business volume up by 54 per cent on the year prior, reinforcing the demand for face-to-face connection in a premium setting,” said Club Med Pacific’s general manager, Michelle Davies.
“With 50 per cent of inquiries for the upcoming year focused on incentives and 30 per cent on corporate meetings, the MICE sector shows no signs of slowing down.
“Manveer’s expertise in resort operations and his commitment to delivering exceptional experiences will be key in meeting this demand and taking this important part of our business to new heights.”