Richard Senior to direct Ibis and Novotel business development

Directly in charge of sales, marketing, public relations, communications, revenue and reservation functions for both hotels with a combined 622 rooms, Senior will lead a team of 31 personnel across five departments.

Senior is reputed for executing tasks meticulously and leading them to a successful completion, while rising up the corporate ladder over 17 years in the London hotel industry.

Commenting on his appointment, Richard Senior said, "For me it's a landmark move, especially to Dubai which is buzzing with growth and opportunities. I am looking forward to the challenge of directing business development for Accor's Ibis and Novotel Hotels. They already have carved a niche amongst the business and tourist travellers to Dubai in offering excellent standards of service and fare. I am happy to be in this exciting new country and see a great future not only for me but for Ibis and Novotel as well."

Senior moved to Dubai from his recent position as General Manager of 4-star Holiday Inn in London's Kensington, where he looked after every aspect of hotel operations that included full P&L and budget responsibility.

Senior's sparkling career is dotted with accolades and excellent work record. Between 2002 and 2004, when he was the pre-opening and opening Director of Sales and Marketing for City Inn, Westminster, London's biggest hotel project since 1971. The hotel was awarded Design Hotel of the Year 2003 followed by the Best New Hotel 2004 and Best Group Hotel 2004/05. Senior's role also included deputy General Manager responsibilities.

Prior to this Senior was Director of Sales at the five AA red star Royal Garden hotel in Kensington from 1999 to 2002, where he was instrumental in growing and repositioning the hotel's business in 1991 while most other hotels lost major market share.

Senior has also gained experience with Radisson SAS and Forte Meridien hotels.