Voco Gosford pre-opening team revealed
The pre-opening team for the Voco Gosford precinct has been announced with Bjoern Noeldner taking up the role of General Manager.
Kristina Ayton has been appointed Director of Sales and Marketing; Natalie McGready as Executive Assistant Manager; Nicole Curran as Human Resources Manager and Janendra Rama as Financial Controller.
Noeldner brings more than 30 years of international hospitality experience, having managed multiple pre-openings, renovations and rebranding projects for luxury properties across the globe, most recently with InterContinental Hotels in Fiji, Adelaide and Hayman Island.
“Being part of the launch team at Voco Gosford is an incredible journey that continues to evolve,” he said.
“At the heart of this journey is our incredible pre-opening team that I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with. Together, we’re developing something truly special, driven by a shared passion for excellence and unstuffy hospitality.
“This project is not just about opening a hotel, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to create a destination that combines global standards with the character and charm of the Central Coast region. It’s exciting to be at the forefront of such a transformative project, knowing that Voco Gosford is set to be a benchmark for premium yet welcoming hospitality in the Central Coast.”
Ayton takes up the role of Director of Sales and Marketing (DOSM) for The Archibald Precinct and Voco Gosford.
She brings more than a decade of local industry experience, a deep understanding of the region’s market dynamics and audience behaviours, and strong local connections thanks to her previous role as Chief Operating Officer at The Entertainment Grounds, Gosford Race Club.
“Being part of the pre-opening team of this incredible project is unlike anything I’ve experienced before,” said Ayton.
“There’s a real sense of purpose and excitement in knowing we’re not just opening a hotel – we’re creating an entirely new destination that will reshape how people experience the Central Coast.”
Executive Assistant Manager Natalie McGready brings a wealth of operational experience from well-known properties such as The Star Sydney, Ovolo Woolloomooloo and Novotel Sydney Darling Square.
“The precinct will bring an entirely fresh offering to Gosford and being part of the launch team is inspiring,” she said.
“Beyond opening the doors, I am most excited about expanding our team and creating a culture that understands and lives true to our brand and values.”
Human Resources Manager Nicole Curran has extensive HR management experience across aviation and major hospitality brands including Qantas, IHG and Accor.
Financial Controller Janendra Rama is responsible for overseeing the financial operations and strategic planning for the hotel’s pre-opening and post-launch phases.
Rama brings over 25 years’ experience working in finance across boutique hotels, multinational chains, and private enterprises.
The Langham names General Manager for new Bangkok hotel
Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) has appointed Nick Downing as General Manager of The Langham, Custom House, Bangkok, slated to openin 2026.
Downing brings more than three decades of luxury hospitality experience from across Southeast Asia, Australia and the Indian Ocean.
He most recently served as General Manager of The Siam in Bangkok, where he is credited with playing a key role in leading the resort to a place on the World’s 50 Best Hotels list and a Michelin three-key distinction.
Previously, at Minor Hotel Group, Downing managed a cluster of 12 hotels; W Retreat Koh Samui – which he successfully repositioned – and Per Aquum Hotels and Resorts, where he steered key development projects and the opening of the renowned Huvafen Fushi resort.
He will report to LHG’s Regional Vice President – Operations, Asia, Sherona Shng
“This appointment is a clear statement of intent,” said Shng.
“We are building The Langham, Custom House, Bangkok to be one of the most distinctive and desirable hotels in the region. Nick’s ability to elevate properties into cultural icons, with a focus on people, partnerships and place, makes him the ideal person to bring the extraordinary hotel to life.”
Crowne Plaza Geelong hires sales and marketing lead
Crowne Plaza Geelong has welcomed Karen Jackson as Director of Sales and Marketing, ahead of its 2026,
Jackson brings over 25 years of experience in the hotel and tourism industry, having held senior sales and marketing roles with major brands including Marriott, Starwood and Accor, and previously worked for Tourism Victoria.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining IHG and Plenary as part of the pre-opening of Crowne Plaza Geelong on the waterfront, and to contribute to such a significant development for the region,” said Jackson.
“As a proud local, I’m passionate about showcasing everything Geelong has to offer and bringing a premium hotel offering to the city’s growing tourism and events sector.
“I look forward to continuing my engagement with the community and welcoming guests to experience this exciting new hotel.”
Crowne Plaza Geelong General Manager, John Dickson, who has previously worked alongside Jackson, welcomed her to the team.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to again work with Karen who is so passionate about her home city and shares the values that we want to install within the hotel,” he said.
“Karen is such a professional and has always had her client’s best interests at heart and has always gone above and beyond to ensure their needs are exceeded.
“IHG’s Crowne Plaza Geelong is such an exciting development and together with the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, will further encourage visitation in the region and I know Karen will support this with the passion and dedication she has always displayed”.
Dorsett Melbourne names EAM
Dorsett Melbourne has welcomed Sushant Sharma as Executive Assistant Manager.
Sharma brings over 17 years of experience across boutique hotels, luxury lodges, and full-service properties in Victoria and South Australia including Sequoia Luxury Lodge, Mount Lofty House and Sofitel Adelaide.
In his most recent role as General Manager at The Larwill Art Series Melbourne, Sharma introduced sustainability programs that earned Eco Certification from Eco Tourism Australia, launched community partnerships to strengthen local engagement, and cultivated a high-performing culture.
Sharma began his hospitality career in food and beverage before moving into key management roles.
“I have dedicated my career to the hospitality industry. From the front desk to event coordination and guest services, I thrive in environments where warmth, attention to detail and genuine connection come together to make people feel truly welcome,” says Sushant.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to join a brand like Dorsett that shares these values. I’m excited to continue building a strong culture, shaping standout guest experiences and contributing to the hotel’s ongoing growth in this vibrant city.”
Dorsett Melbourne General Manager, Stephen Cane, described Sharma as “the final piece of the puzzle” in the hotel’s leadership team.
“His appointment brings a wealth of experience and a strategic mindset that will support us in taking Dorsett Melbourne to new heights,” Cane said.
“With a busy calendar of high-profile events ahead in Melbourne, his leadership will be instrumental in shaping the way we engage with our guests and the wider market.”