Dubai developer Emaar Properties has appointed Olivier Harnisch as the Chief Executive Officer of Emaar Hospitality Group, its hospitality and leisure business.
Mr. Olivier Harnisch (biography) has over 30 years of international experience in the hotel and tourism industry. He joins Emaar from Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group in Brussels, where he was Chief Operating Officer, responsible for a portfolio of over 350 leased, managed and franchised hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Mr. Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of Emaar Properties, said: “Olivier Harnisch’s significant regional and international experience in both hotel and restaurant operations will be an asset in driving our onward growth, with a focus on bringing innovative and value-added guest experiences, and managing our growing number of hotels that serve distinct market niches.”
Mr. Harnisch started his career in 1986, and was initially associated with individual hotels, food and beverage operations and airlines for over 13 years. He then worked at Hilton Worldwide for over 14 years where he held the position of Vice President for Northern and Central Europe, before joining Carlson Rezidor Group in 2012.
Having worked across the globe, Mr. Harnisch is fluent in six languages.
He holds an MSc in Organizational Behavior from the University of London, an MBA in International Finance from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and a Degree in Hospitality Management from Berlin School of Hotel Administration.
Emaar Hospitality Group has three brands – The Address Hotels + Resorts – a luxury hotel and residences brand, Vida Hotels and Resorts – an upscale boutique lifestyle hotel and residences brand, and Rove Hotels – a midscale hotel and residences brand.
The leisure assets of Emaar Hospitality Group include Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club and Dubai Marina Yacht Club.