Stephen Banks appointed Executive Director, Sales & Marketing, Europe, Africa and the Middle East

In this new role Banks will be responsible for ensuring the maximisation of overall sales & marketing efforts for the region, strategically overseeing the sales & marketing operations in the regions' hotels, as well as the global sales effort. In addition, his role will include supporting the company's developmental strategies in the region.

Based in Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Global Sales Office in London, Banks will report to both John Johnston, Executive Vice President, Europe, Africa and Middle East; and Heather McCrory, Vice President Sales and Distribution.

A career hotelier Banks has worked with various international chains, starting his career with Hilton International in the UK. After eight years with Hilton he moved to the city's Café Royal, followed by stints with Hyatt International and Europa Hotels & Resorts. In 1992 he joined Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts in the Middle East, where he held several senior positions culminating in the role of Area Vice President Sales & Marketing, Middle East & Africa, based in Cairo.

In 1999, Stephen joined Ritz-Carlton as Regional Director of Sales & Marketing, Middle East, located at the newly opened Ritz-Carlton, Dubai and supporting their regional expansion. He held this position until November 2001 when he joined Fairmont Hotels & Resorts as Regional Director of Sales & Marketing.

Commenting on his new role, Banks said: "With our recent acquisitions in London and Monte Carlo and new projects in the Middle East, a London base is a strategically important location for the global sales and marketing effort. The development of inbound business to our new properties and outbound business from these key markets to our worldwide portfolio will be my immediate focus."

Featuring a collection of fabled castles, secluded lodges, storied meeting places and modern retreats, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts opens the doors to some of the world's most celebrated addresses. With locations throughout eight countries, our 45 distinctive hotels - including The Fairmont San Francisco, The Fairmont Banff Springs and London's Savoy - promise travelers unparalleled settings, rich experiences and lasting memories. Future Fairmont Hotels & Resorts include The Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya (fall 2005), The Fairmont Cairo and The Fairmont Abu Dhabi Resort & Villas.