Park Hyatt Johannesburg announces leadership team as it ramps up to opening
Park Hyatt Johannesburg today announced its leadership team as it prepares for its opening in November 2024. Mitch Gemmell has been appointed General Manager of the five-star hotel, and the dynamic leadership team across operations, F& B, Human Resources, Marketing, have stepped into their new roles to successfully launch the luxury Park Hyatt brand in South Africa.
Mitch Gemmell – General Manager of Park Hyatt Johannesburg
Mitch Gemmell brings over 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality,
crafting moments of elegance and sophistication at every turn. His
journey has unfolded across South Africa’s most renowned boutique
properties, including SeVen Villa Hotel and Spa. His expertise, gained
from pivotal roles at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa and Serengeti
Estates, encompasses strategic planning, food and beverage innovation,
and operational finesse. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering
commitment to personalized luxury, Mitch leads the team at Park Hyatt
Johannesburg with a vision that invites guests to revel in a sanctuary
of refined sophistication.
David Asamoah – Director of Room Operations
David Asamoah, as Director of Room Operations, focuses on delivering a
seamless and luxurious guest experience. His career in hospitality is an
invitation to discover a world where every detail is thoughtfully
crafted to deliver an exquisitely seamless experience. With a deep
understanding of guest services, he has meticulously balanced the art of
room operations across properties like Winston Hotel.
Debi van Flymen – Director of Food and Beverage
Debi van Flymen, Director of Food and Beverage, is celebrated for her
forward-thinking approach to transforming dining venues into destination
experiences. Her journey through fine dining is nothing short of
magical, with her tenure as Wine Director at the renowned Restaurant
Mosaic in France showcasing her ability to craft gastronomic experiences
that are both deeply personal and universally pleasing. At Park Hyatt
Johannesburg, Debi’s vision is to create works of art on every plate,
with each dish stimulating the senses and leaving a lasting impression.
Her commitment to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients and her
exquisite attention to detail ensure that every meal becomes a luxurious
exploration of South Africa’s rich culinary heritage.
Christopher Tustian – Executive Chef
Christopher Tustian, Executive Chef, brings his creative culinary flair
to elevate the dining experience at Park Hyatt Johannesburg with unique,
locally inspired menus. With experience spanning prestigious
international kitchens, Christopher strikes a perfect balance between
tradition and innovation. His dedication to sourcing the finest
ingredients, often locally, allows him to craft dishes that surprise and
delight. Christopher’s touch ensures that every dining moment is an
elegant and harmonious experience, inviting guests to revel in the
pleasures of world-class cuisine.
Neesan Chetty – Human Resource Manager
Neesan Chetty is dedicated to cultivating a positive work culture and
driving employee engagement. with over seven years in luxury
hospitality, specializes in recruitment, employee relations, and
strategic HR planning. He previously worked with Gold Reef City Casino
and Suncoast Casino.
Ankita Raturi – Marketing and Communications Manager
Ankita Raturi is set to enhance the hotel’s brand presence with fresh
marketing strategies. Having worked with iconic hospitality brands such
as Marriott Hotels and The Oberoi Group, Ankita’s expertise lies in
curating marketing campaigns that provoke the imagination and invite
guests to discover the unique pleasures of a stay. Her ability to
balance creativity with measurable impact has earned her accolades for
driving brand awareness and engagement.
“I am very honoured to take on the General Manager role at Park Hyatt
Johannesburg.”, said Mitch Gemmel, “As we prepare for the highly
anticipated opening of the property, I am truly excited to work with the
amazing team to launch the Park Hyatt brand in South Africa and deliver
memorable experiences for our guests.”
In addition to the Park Hyatt Johannesburg team appointments, Hyatt
hotels in South Africa have announced two cluster appointments.
Riannon Rees – Group Executive Housekeeper
Experienced and seasoned Group Executive Housekeeper, Riannon Rees has
over 25 years in luxury hospitality, having held key leadership roles
with renowned brands like Sun International and InterContinental Hotels.
Currently, as the Group Executive Housekeeper at Hyatt Hotels South
Africa, Riannon is responsible for overseeing operations across multiple
properties, ensuring exceptional guest satisfaction and maintaining the
highest housekeeping standards. Her extensive expertise spans staff
management, operational efficiency, and maintaining luxury standards
across hotels, resorts, and private residences.
Nicholas van der Walt – Group Executive Pastry Chef
Chef Nicolas, Group Pastry Chef for Hyatt Hotels South Africa, brings
over 18 years of international experience, known for his award-winning
creations and leadership, he elevates the dessert offerings across
Hyatt’s properties. A passionate mentor, Chef Nicolas is committed to
innovation, sustainability, and nurturing the next generation of pastry
chefs.
Riannon and Nicolas will be based at Park Hyatt Johannesburg and will be responsible for their departments across four Hyatt branded hotels, Park Hyatt Johannesburg, Hyatt House Johannesburg Rosebank, Hyatt House Johannesburg Sandton and Hyatt Regency Cape Town.
