As GHM readies the grand opening of a new resort on the Arabian peninsula and looks to the next phase of its expansion, the 26-year-old luxury hotel group has appointed Tommy Lai as its CEO.
The Singapore native will assume some responsibilities currently managed by GHM co-founder and president Hans R. Jenni, but the primary motivation for Lai’s appointment is to spearhead the development opportunities and to drive GHM’s overall growth ambitions.
“We’re on the verge of some significant new developments, which we’ll be announcing in the coming months,” said Jenni. “Tommy’s appointment is both timely and strategic. His experience and knowledge, especially with regard to the North Asia markets and our widening ambitions across the region, align nicely with our plans.
Lai comes to GHM after six years with the Thailand-based Onyx Hospitality Group, where he helmed their North Asia operation from Hong Kong. His well-rounded understanding of the hospitality industry, complemented by his purposeful professional pursuits throughout his career, has led him to this choice candidacy.
“As an ardent fan of GHM since the start of my career in hospitality, I am appreciative of the group’s iconic hotels, both past and present,” said Lai. “By building on its foundation and strengths, I believe GHM will be able to capture the attention of a market that seeks luxury and style, while staying true to its Asian roots and design strength.”
“I am looking forward to this exciting chapter to plant GHM flags on fresh destinations, and to be a part of the growth possibilities at GHM,” added Lai.
GHM’s hotels are currently located in Asia, Europe and the Middle East. The Middle East is an upcoming area of growth with the opening of Al Bait in Sharjah and news on soon-to-announce projects. The company’s interests in China are deepening with the development and introduction of hotels under a new flag – Ahn Luh Resorts and Residences. The nascent hotel group has already opened three new properties in Shanghai, Hangzhou and Shaoxing, is planning a debut in Jiangsu next year and two more properties in Hubei and Guangdong in 2021. GHM’s involvement in Tin Hotels is yet another platform for the acceleration of the group’s development pipeline.
