Kerzner International has appointed Michael Wale CEO as the company continues its global expansion.
"Kerzner International is an incredible business and I am honored to be joining the company at this exciting time. Both Atlantis and One&Only have established strong global consumer recognition and loyalty and are perfectly poised for further innovation and strategic growth. I look forward to continuing to build and grow long-term relationships around the world. We have an incredible group of deeply committed colleagues, all aligned under the company's vision to 'blow the guest away,'" Wale said in a statement.
Wale worked at Starwood Hotels & Resorts for close to 40 years before joining Kerzner International. He served as the president for Starwood Hotels & Resorts' Europe, Africa & Middle East division since June 2013 and was based in Brussels, Belgium at Starwood's EAME office. Wale led the merger of the Le Meridien brand with Starwood during his time there. "Michael has been extremely successful in achieving outstanding guest satisfaction, building a world-class corporate culture and delivering strong financial results. Under his leadership, I look forward to the continued growth of Kerzner International, further prosperity and an expanded strategic global footprint," His Excellency Mohammed Al Shaibani, executive director and CEO of Investment Corporation of Dubai and chairman of Kerzner International, said in a statement.
Wale also mentors future leaders in hospitality. He created graduate hospitality training program Vita Futura at Starwood and served as a Next Step Mentor with The Prince's Trust.
Kerzner recently added the Atlantis, Sanya resort in China to its portfolio this month. The company also reopened the One&Only Le Saint Géran—the first luxury hotel in Mauritius, Africa—in December following a $55-million renovation. Kerzner’s hotel development pipeline includes The Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences in Dubai and the Atlantis Ko Olina in Hawaii.