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Expansion of Leadership and Presence in Asia Pacific by Preferred Hotels

Expansion of Leadership and Presence in Asia Pacific by Preferred Hotels

James Miller, LocalsRide.com
by 
James Miller, LocalsRide.com
4 minutes read
News
August 24, 2025

Preferred Hotels & Resorts Enhances Presence in Asia Pacific

In a significant move within the hospitality sector, Preferred Hotels & Resorts has unveiled new leadership appointments and strategic developments geared towards bolstering its presence in the Asia Pacific. This initiative reflects the brand’s commitment to providing ongoing support to its hotel members while fostering growth in a region known for its dynamic travel market.

Leadership Appointments and Responsibilities

Laurence Onfroy is stepping up as Vice President of Business Development for the Asia Pacific region, based in Singapore. Her expanded role focuses on driving regional growth and enhancing the company’s hotel portfolio across Preferred Travel Group brands, especially emphasizing the sustainable initiative, Beyond Green. This strategic approach aims to establish strong partnerships at both global and regional levels, facilitating brand expansion and marketing synergies.

Supporting the Singapore team, James Koh serves as Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Pacific, overseeing hotel retention and development since joining in 2022. In tandem, Cheryl Siow has been appointed Vice President of Global Sales for Greater China and Group Sales for Southeast Asia while Matthias Ong manages Public Relations and Social Media—both having contributed to the team this year.

Expanding Leadership in Greater China and Australia

The leadership in Greater China and Australia sees notable changes with Eddie Wong being appointed as Area Managing Director for the region. Based in Hong Kong, his role encompasses steering growth and development strategies. In Japan, Midori Kataoka ascends to Area Managing Director, overseeing 50 key member properties, complemented by the addition of Yuichi Kanasaki as Director of Hotel Revenue Optimization, further strengthening the team.

Strategic Developments and Regional Growth

Michelle Woodley, the President of Preferred Travel Group, emphasizes that these appointments are instrumental in reinforcing the brand’s luxury travel position within Asia Pacific. With the region’s robust growth potential, the strategic developments signify a commitment to improving visibility and support for the existing hotel members.

Since the year’s outset, four new hotel properties have joined the Preferred Hotels portfolio in Asia Pacific, including prestigious locations such as Amara Singapore and The Archipelago. This expansion brings the total to over 90 member properties, with plans for further growth in high-demand markets like China and emerging destinations in Bali, Vietnam, and Australia. Notable offerings include properties from The Fullerton Hotels & Resorts and luxurious establishments like Wynn Palace Cotai in Macao.

The Importance of Growth and Strategic Partnerships

Region Notable Properties Strategic Focus
Greater China Wynn Palace Cotai, Hotel New Otani Tokyo Enhancing brand visibility
Australia Fullerton Hotels Market retention and expansion
India The Leela Gandhinagar, Aurika Mumbai Continued growth in luxury markets

The Impact on the Luxury Travel Market


The strategic appointments and initiatives taken by Preferred Hotels & Resorts are integral to its vision for establishing a stronger foothold in the competitive luxury travel segment within the Asia Pacific. These changes not only aim to fortify the existing relationships but also to foster new brand partnerships that resonate with a growing clientele.

Conclusion


In summary, the recent developments at Preferred Hotels & Resorts demonstrate a proactive approach toward enhancing its operational footprint in Asia Pacific. By welcoming new properties and reinforcing its leadership teams, the brand is positioning itself for sustained growth amidst an evolving travel landscape. The emphasis on personalized support and strategic alliances aligns perfectly with the needs of modern-day travelers seeking unique experiences.


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