Accor Pacific CEO Sarah Derry departs
Sarah Derry's departure marks the beginning of a new chapter for Accor in the Pacific, as the company announces its new leadership structure
In a significant leadership transition, Accor is bidding farewell to its CEO of Accor Pacific, Sarah Derry. Her departure is scheduled for the end of February 2024 and signifies a pivotal moment for the hospitality giant.
During her remarkable seven-year tenure with Accor and almost two years as CEO, Sarah Derry achieved outstanding milestones, leaving an indelible mark on the company. She is credited with creating an award-winning HEARTIST culture in the Pacific, successfully leading the integration of Mantra Group, and spearheading essential sustainability initiatives.
Under her visionary leadership, Accor achieved the remarkable feat of opening 30 hotels in the Pacific over the past two years.
In response to her departure, Sarah Derry expressed deep gratitude to the Accor team in the Pacific, acknowledging their unwavering commitment and hard work. I am immensely proud of the achievements we have accomplished together,” she stated, conveying her excitement about the future and extending her best wishes for Accor’s continued success.
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Duncan O’Rourke, CEO of Accor for MEA APAC – Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, lauded Sarah’s exemplary performance. He recognised her journey within Accor, from her initial role leading Talent & Culture to her appointment as CEO Accor Pacific in February 2022. “We thank Sarah for the positive impact and contribution she has made during her time with Accor,” Duncan O’Rourke expressed, emphasising her outstanding legacy.
While Sarah’s presence will be missed, her departure sets the stage for fresh leadership to take the helm, ensuring that Accor’s legacy of excellence and innovation endures in the Pacific region.
Accor Pacific confirmed its new leadership structure as follows:
Duncan O’Rourke, CEO of Accor for MEA APAC – Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, will continue to lead the region. The leadership structure will be supported by three Chief Operating Officers for the Premium, Midscale and Economy Division across the region: Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer – Middle East, Africa and Turkey; Garth Simmons, Chief Operating Officer – Asia.
And Adrian Williams was appointed to the newly created role of Chief Operating Officer – Pacific, Premium, Midscale and Economy Division, effective from January 15, 2024, he will guide operations in the region.
Commenting on Adrian’s appointment, Duncan O’Rourke, CEO MEA APAC – Premium, Midscale and Economy Division at Accor, said that Adrian’s leadership would focus on driving profitable growth in the Pacific for its owners, “I am pleased to announce Adrian Williams’ appointment to the newly created role of Chief Operating Officer for Accor in the Pacific.”
Adrian brings a wealth of experience as a prominent industry leader, with an impressive track record and commitment to operational excellence. He has been an integral part of the Accor team for a number of years, holding various General Manager and Senior Leadership positions.
His notable achievements include playing a vital role in the successful acquisition of Mantra Group in 2017.
In addition to his accomplishments within Accor, Adrian is deeply involved in guiding and advising the travel and accommodation industry. Currently, he serves as the co-chair of the Victorian advisory board for Accommodation Australia and as a Board Member of the Melbourne Convention Bureau.
Duncan said, “Adrian will focus on addressing the unique needs and requirements of our valued owners and driving profitable business growth. With his extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Adrian brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic insights. His leadership skills, passion for excellence, and commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences make him the perfect fit for this role. I have full confidence that our operations in the Pacific region will deliver exceptional results.”
Adrian will lead a large team of senior Accor operations experts based across the region, focused on delivering operational excellence and growth for hotel owners. The team will be supported by leaders across Legal, Finance, Revenue Management, Talent & Culture, Commercial and IT.
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