Thomas Tapken joins Bin Ham Group as City Seasons Group General Manager

The ranking comes from popular industry magazine Hotelier Middle East's 'Power 50' - a round-up of industry experts recognized as "the most powerful through their influence on the sector in 2009" and "their commitment to the industry's growth and development over the years".

Mr. Tapken has held top positions in several international hotel chains. He has successfully handled challenging assignments involving pre-openings, re-branding, hotel operations and administration in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Having enjoyed over 25 years in the industry, Mr. Tapken will now lead City Seasons Group in its drive towards flourishing as a recognised international hotel chain.

"I thrive on challenges," said Mr. Tapken soon after assuming his new role. "I am looking forward to leading the transformation of a successful local hotel group into an international chain, with appropriate service standards and guidelines."

As the first step Mr. Tapken plans to introduce innovative F&B concepts and enhance brand awareness both within and outside the UAE.

City Seasons Group currently owns and operates four hotel properties across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. All City Seasons hotels offer leisure and meetings facilities and are centrally located within easy reach of airport and business districts. Additional hotels are already under construction in Abu Dhabi and Oman, with new international projects in the pipeline.

German-born Tapken was formerly Regional General Manager Dubai for Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts before moving to his present position.

"We are delighted to welcome Mr. Thomas Tapken, a consummate hospitality professional, to his new role heading the City Seasons Group of Hotels, and we wish him every success in his drive to firmly establish the chain both regionally and internationally and to lead the planned development and growth in the coming years." said Sheikh Ahmed Bin Ham.