The First Group Hospitality strengthens leadership team with new appointments
2 min read
The First Group Hospitality has made several key senior leadership appointments designed to support its rapid expansion and growing operational needs.
Brendan McCormack transitions to Vice President – Business Development, Food & Beverage, leveraging his operational background to expand the company’s culinary brands. Having served as Vice President of Marketing since joining the leadership team in 2020, McCormack will focus on scaling bespoke concepts including Risen Café & Artisanal Bakery and The Blacksmith Bar & Eatery.
Robyn James-O’Connor joins as Senior Vice President – Marketing, bringing twenty years of luxury hospitality experience from Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts where she developed globally recognized marketing initiatives. Her expertise spans brand strategy and integrated performance campaigns that drive commercial success.
Antonio Bissoni assumes the Vice President – Commercial position, bringing revenue optimization expertise from Marriott International and Hilton. His focus will include implementing data-driven pricing strategies and enhancing distribution channel performance.
Sohail Pedari has been promoted to Vice President – Sales, drawing on his commercial leadership experience with Hilton, Marriott International, and Rocco Forte Hotels. His appointment strengthens the organization’s partnership-focused growth strategy.
Maria Kuzeva joins as Corporate Director of Wellness & Spa, applying her two decades of experience developing wellness concepts for luxury destinations including Atlantis properties and Madinat Jumeirah. Her role will unify wellness offerings across the expanding hotel portfolio.
Apo Demirtas, Chief Strategy Officer, stated: “These strategic appointments reflect our commitment to building a leadership team capable of driving sustained growth. As we expand regionally and internationally, these roles strengthen our commercial, brand development, and wellness capabilities, ensuring we deliver exceptional value to stakeholders.”
The leadership enhancements coincide with multiple growth initiatives, including development of the record-breaking Ciel Dubai Marina tower, new franchise agreements with global hospitality brands, and the company’s European debut with Gennadi Seaside Resort.
