Jumeirah Group, the Dubai-based luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding, has appointed Marc Dardenne as group chief operating officer.

Taking up his position with immediate effect, Dardenne returns to Dubai to oversee Jumeirah Group operations across its international portfolio, which includes the world’s most luxurious hotel, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Dardenne has a long and established career as a hotelier having worked internationally for more than 30 years.  As a hospitality visionary, he has been instrumental in the development of a number of brands and curated guest experience across a range of diverse hospitality assets, including hotels, branded residences, serviced apartments, resorts and clubs. He joins Jumeirah Group from Patina Hotels and Resorts in Singapore where, as CEO, he oversaw brand creation, development and asset management. Previously, Dardenne was based in Dubai and most recently worked as CEO at Emaar Hotel and Resorts, where he had a broad range of responsibilities including portfolio and concept development.

Stefan Leser, Jumeirah Group CEO, said: “Marc brings unique insight, global expertise and a passion for hospitality that is as inspiring as it is impressive.  Jumeirah Group has a strong portfolio of landmark properties and Marc’s commitment to excellence reflects our own focus to deliver the very best in guest experiences. His contribution to the group will further enhance our management team and Marc will greatly contribute to Jumeirah’s continued evolution as a world leading hospitality brand.”

Dardenne added: “I am delighted to return to Dubai with Jumeirah Group. It is a unique hospitality brand with an enviable reputation for luxury and a culture of innovation and bold thinking. I am looking forward to bringing my experience to Jumeirah and working in such a highly creative hospitality environment.”

An industry pioneer, Dardenne has been recognised by peers and industry commentators for his contribution to the development of the hospitality sector. He won an award in recognition of his Leadership Excellence and was voted ‘CEO of the Year’ in the Middle East. A Belgium national, Dardenne has lived and worked in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East and is fluent in French, English and German. - TradeArabia News Service