Wharf Hotels, the Hong Kong-SAR based hospitality group, recently announced the appointment of Richard Simmons as General Manager of Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila.  Reporting to the group’s Vice President, Operations, Richard assumes leadership of the Forbes Five-Star landmark hotel to drive operational excellence and enhance financial performance.

“With diverse experience in the Philippines and across deluxe properties in a number of gateway locations in Asia, Richard will be a strong addition to our team and will help elevate the hotel’s reputation in the region and beyond,” said Wharf Hotels Vice President Operations, Jørgen Christensen.

With over two decades in senior leadership positions in Rooms, Sales and Marketing, and Revenue, Richard brings a wealth of expertise – from General Manager roles with Hyatt Hotels in Hong Kong, Beijing and Manila, as well as Amari Hotels in Bangkok – and insight.

This will be Richard’s third posting in the Philippines, with previous tenures with Shangri-La in Cebu and Hyatt Hotels in Manila.  “I’m excited to return to Manila and be a part of a team that strives to outdo itself with service excellence through elevated guest experiences,” RIchard shared.  “Our entire team is committed to bring Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila to greater heights in this new era of travel and tourism.”

An Australian national, Richard grew up in the world of hospitality when his father was posted to Hong Kong for a number of years in the hospitality and travel sectors.  He is an avid traveller and golfer, and enjoys attending live sports events as well as visiting his two teenage daughters who reside in Germany.