Key leadership appointments at TFE Hotels in Australia and New Zealand
TFE Hotels has announced several leadership changes in the New Zealand market and at its Rendezvous hotels in Perth and Queensland.
Stuti Kumar has joined TFE Hotels’ New Zealand Country Office as the new Director of People and Capability for New Zealand.
Kumar brings a decade of experience in New Zealand’s human resources sector, most recently serving as the General Manager of People and Culture at Ezi Car Rental in Auckland where she played a pivotal role in enhancing leadership capabilities, coaching and development to drive organisational growth and performance.
Lindsay David has been appointed TFE Hotels Director of Sales, New Zealand.
David brings more than two decades of experience in hotel sales and business development from roles with leading hospitality brands including Millennium Hotels, IHG, and Rendezvous Hotel.
“This marks an exciting chapter as we expand our footprint in New Zealand and continue to strengthen our presence in key markets,” said TFE Hotels Senior Director of Operations ANZ, Tish Nyar.
“We’re proud to welcome such accomplished and experienced leaders who will play a key role in shaping our future, building strong team cultures, and driving growth across both regions.”
At Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown, Joseph Stipo has been appointed Hotel General Manager.
During his 18-year tenure at TFE Hotels he spent seven years as General Manager at Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne, and prior to his latest appointment, he seconded in the General Manager role at Rendezvous Queenstown for three months to assist and support the team.
He has also held key management roles across Adina Apartment Hotels and Travelodge Hotels.
Rajeev Dahiya is supporting Joseph in the Assistant Hotel Manager role at the MICE property.
Thiva Kesavan has been appointed General Manager of Rendezvous Hotel Perth Scarborough and Lucy Ockleston as Hotel Manager.
Kesavan brings more than 20 years of hospitality leadership experience across Australia and the Asia-Pacific, including senior roles with Hyatt, Accor, and IHG. Most recently, he served as General Manager of Hyatt Regency Perth, where he led the hotel to strong commercial performance and operational excellence.
Ockleston recently transitioned from a cluster role in the Northern Territory.
As a valued member of the TFE Hotels team for over fourteen years, she has held key leadership roles across the Travelodge and Adina portfolios.
“Lucy has consistently demonstrated excellence across our business and a proven track record in leading diverse teams,” Nyar said.
“We are thrilled to see both Thiva and Lucy take on this new challenge.”
General Managers appointed at Brisbane Adinas
At TFE Hotels, seasoned hospitality professional Sue Rowe has been appointed as General Manager of Adina Chermside Brisbane, leading the final stages of pre-opening and the launch of the property.
Rowe has worked at TFE Hotels for more than 27 years, successfully managing several of the group’s Queensland properties, including Adina Anzac Square, and Rendezvous on George Brisbane.
She brings a deep understanding of both the brand and the Brisbane market.
In addition, Bri Hill has been appointed Cluster General Manager across Adina Brisbane and Adina Anzac Square in the CBD.
Hill joined TFE Hotels in 2018 and has established a strong reputation for operational excellence and innovation.
She has guided Adina Brisbane through major initiatives including a guest experience pilots, supporting a global brand repositioning project.
The hotel was awarded the 2024 Stronger Together Award for Apartment Style Hotel of the Year, while Hill herself earned regional recognition as both Outstanding and Inspiring Leader and Regional GM of the Year for Queensland and New Zealand.
“Sue and Bri are both exceptional leaders who not only embody TFE Hotels’ values but our commitment to developing strong, passionate hospitality professionals,” said TFE Hotels Chief Operating Officer, Chris Sedgwick.
“Their combined experience and leadership will play a key role as we continue to enhance our network in Southeast Queensland.”
Sydney Pullman welcomes new Director of Sales
Pullman Sydney Hyde Park has appointed Toby Paul as its new Director of Sales.
Paul brings extensive experience working with several well-known hospitality brands, including Accor, Marriott and IHG brands, rebranding and repositioning hotels and leading successful RFP negotiations with global partners.
In previous roles, he focused on strategic account management, driving revenue growth, and building high-performing teams.
He is recognised for mentoring emerging sales talent and supporting their growth in the industry.
“The opportunity to once again be part of a global network that values both performance and the people – while working with a brand as iconic as Pullman – made the decision an easy one,” he said.
“I’m excited to join the talented team at Pullman Sydney Hyde Park and look forward to working together to continue delivering exceptional results and memorable experiences for our guests and partners.
“I aim to enhance collaboration across departments to ensure our guests experience the distinctive Pullman brand promise – a blend of style, sophistication, and seamless service.”