IHG Hotels & Resorts Ropes In Haitham Mattar as Managing Director of IMEA

IHG Hotels & Resorts, a leading global hospitality chain, has appointed Haitham Mattar as Managing Director of India, Middle East & Africa (IMEA), with effect from 18 April 2021. Mattar carries over 25 years of experience in hospitality and tourism and an outstanding network across the industry.

In his new role, Haitham Mattar will drive IHG business in the IMEA region. He will report to Kenneth Macpherson, Chief Executive Officer, Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Africa (EMEAA). 

Commenting on the announcement, Kenneth Macpherson, Chief Executive Officer, Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Africa, IHG, said, “I am very pleased to welcome Haitham back to IHG and lead our business in IMEA at such a crucial time for the travel and tourism industry. Haitham has a wealth of experience within the sector and has been at the forefront of several important strategic initiatives in the region over the last decade. I am confident that his knowledge, diverse experience, along with cross-continent and local expertise will be invaluable, as we look to continue driving our recovery.”

Earlier, Mattar spent 11 years at IHG Hotels & Resorts from 2000 to 2011 in various operations, commercial, and sales & marketing positions based in IMEA.

Haitham Mattar commented, “I am delighted to join the IHG family once again and have an opportunity to lead such a diverse region with enormous potential. The tourism and hospitality landscape in IMEA has transformed significantly in recent years, providing us with a tremendous opportunity to offer world-class hospitality options to both domestic and international travellers. Building on IHG’s strong performance track record and growth plans, I look forward to working with the team, as well as our partners, as we look ahead to the next chapter of travel in the region.”

Presently, IHG is operating 165 hotels across 8 brands in India, Middle East, and Africa, with a further 102 in the development pipeline due to open within the next three to five years.