Hilton Hotels Corp. has appointed a new leader for its Asia/Pacific operations as it aims to quickly multiply its presence across the region.
Martin Rinck began duties as president of Hilton Hotels Asia/Pacific in the company's Singapore headquarters on Nov. 17, overseeing 50 Hilton-branded hotels, leases and franchises in the region. The appointment comes about a year after Rinck was named to the equivalent position at Carlson Hotels Worldwide
(BTNonline, Nov. 19, 2007).Prior to that role, Rinck was executive vice president and chief development officer for the Brussels-based Rezidor Hotel Group, which doubled its portfolio during his tenure.
Hilton's goals in the region are even more ambitious, aiming to open 300 hotels during the next nine years, expanding its luxury and upscale portfolio and entering the economy and midprice tiers. In particular, Hilton's priority markets include Australia, China, India and Japan.
"Martin's extensive international experience in hotel operations, as well as hotel development, coupled with his great leadership qualities and his insight into luxury brands are all excellent credentials to help deliver our ambitious growth and successfully execute our development strategy in the Asia/Pacific region," Ian Carter, Hilton's president of global operations, said in a statement.
Rinck will lead Hilton's efforts to find and develop future managers in the Asia/Pacific region. He also is charged with increasing brand loyalty among Asian guests and ensuring properties adhere to Hilton's guest experience and service standards.
Rinck is taking the reins from Koos Klein, who has led Hilton's Asia/Pacific operations since 1997.