Explora Journeys, the new luxury brand of MSC Group’s Cruise Division, has appointed Helen Beck as Head of Global Sales Excellence. Beck previously spent five years as Vice President International Sales and Marketing with Crystal Cruises and, prior to that, 16 years with Royal Caribbean as EMEA Regional Director.

Waldorf Astoria Kuwait has appointed Kemal Sirtikirmizi as General Manager. Sirtikirmizi, a hospitality veteran, brings more than 20 years of international experience across North America, Middle East, North Africa and Turkey. He has worked with many luxury brands including St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton.

Stefano Micocci, an Italian citizen, has been appointed Executive Chef at St. Regis Downtown, Dubai. Chef Micocci has over 20 years of progressive experience working in countries like Italy, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Langkawi. Prior to this, he was Executive Chef at The Andaman Luxury Collection in Malaysia.

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas Abu Dhabi has appointed Sid Fikri as Executive Assistant Manager. Fikri’s hospitality career began 20 years ago, in New York City. He brings with him a wide creative knowledge and practical understanding of the hospitality and service industry, working his way up in the Big Apple.

The Jordan Marriott Hotels has appointed Sena Kahraman as Multi Property Director of Marketing Communications. Sena will lead the team in developing and implementing all marketing and communications across the four Marriott Hotels; Amman Marriott Hotel, Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa, Petra Marriott Hotel and Petra Marriott Hotel.

Airport Dimensions, the global leader in airport lounges and travel experiences, has appointed Ed Thorne as its new Global Marketing Director. Thorne brings 18 years of experience in the travel and hospitality sectors along with a passion for marketing gained at working in brands like Radisson, Hilton, and InterContinental.

Binu Varghese has been promoted to General Manager of Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham JBR after joining in 2018 as hotel manager. He has spearheaded the hotel’s rebranding and soft refurbishment in 2019, launched an Indian specialty restaurant in 2020, and introduced new sales and marketing strategies.

Bringing Michelin Star experience, Chef Cláudio Cardoso has been appointed the Culinary Director of SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences. Born in South Africa and raised in Portugal, he has worked with the Armani Hotel Dubai, The Ritz-Carlton in Lisbon, and London’s Sushisamba (where he was Group Executive Chef).