One of the few GMs on this year’s list, Daniele Vastolo is included for his part in creating one of the region’s leading wellness destinations, responsible for the Thai-based Chiva-Som brand here in the Middle East. Leading the recently-opened Zulal Wellness Retreat in Qatar, Vastolo handles around 500 staff. The resort is split into two parts: Zulal Serenity is designed exclusively for adults, while Zulal Discovery invites families to embark on a wellness-focused journey together. Vastolo said: “Our sustainability commitment and family wellness offering are aligned with Qatar National Vision and constitute major priorities for the resort. We aspire to be an actor of change and the leader of sustainable wellness in the region.”

David Thomson

Vice President of TFG Hotel Management Company, The First Group

David Thomson leads a team of more than 1,000 and in 2021, spearheaded the launch of The First Collection, the new hotel management arm of The First Group.

Bringing over 25 years of experience, Thomson was previously COO for JA Resorts & Hotels. Leveraging this experience, The First Collection has entered the busy lifestyle hotel market with a bang. Repositioning his hotels to be more leisure-driven, Thomson has increased loyalty and KPIs across his four hotels.

Thomson’s team also opened The First Collection at JVC, the first hotel to run The First Collection flag. He said: “The success of the opening is a testament to everything that we have achieved at The First Collection and gives me great confidence for the series of properties that we will be opening in 2022 and beyond.”

https://www.hoteliermiddleeast.com/people/50-executive-power-list-2022