glh Hotels has announced the appointment of Oliver Kahf as general manager of the new Hard Rock Hotel London, as the iconic brand prepares to open its doors in the capital in early 2019.
Kahf will bring considerable international operations expertise to the Hard Rock Hotel London, having lived and worked in 14 countries on four continents throughout his 33 years in hospitality.
He began as a management trainee and spent his early career in food and beverage, before switching to sales and marketing, and took up his first general manager appointment in Hua Hin, Thailand, in 1994.
Over the last two decades Kahf’s extensive experience has seen him expertly manage a diverse range of brands and resorts across the Starwood Hotels, Marriott International and Kempinski portfolios.
Commenting on his appointment, Kahf said: “I am very proud to take up the role as general manager of the Hard Rock Hotel London, which we aim to make one of London’s most exciting hotels.
“The new hotel will benefit from an amazing location right in the heart of one of the greatest cities on the planet.
“London is always at the centre of world culture, and the timing for a great brand like Hard Rock Hotels could not be better.
“Bringing together the iconic Hard Rock name with a prestigious hotel site that has played host to legends including Jimi Hendrix and Martha Reeves is a phenomenal opportunity and I am truly looking forward to it.
Occupying one of London’s prime locations, at the corner of Oxford Street, opposite the world-famous Marble Arch monument and Hyde Park Corner, the Hard Rock Hotel London is set to open in early 2019.
Neil Gallagher, chief executive, glh Hotels, said: “Oliver brings with him an exceptional skill-set and a wealth of international experience in hotel management, conversions and hotel openings.
“I am thrilled to welcome him to the team of general managers at our properties, representing Great London Hospitality at its best.
“Hard Rock Hotel London, the capital’s first true destination hotel, will deliver unforgettable guest experiences, because in reality, everyone wants to be treated like a rock star.”
Internationally recognised as a world-class entertainment and lifestyle brand, Hard Rock Hotels offer stylish and contemporary design, unparalleled service and the thread that unites them all – music.