Pan Pacific Hotels Group has announced the appointment of Jeffrey Ong as General Manager, Pan Pacific Suzhou. In his new appointment, Jeffrey will oversee operations at the 484-room Pan Pacific Suzhou, which will officially open on 11 January 2010. Already an architectural landmark in Suzhou, the hotel unveiled its new Towers Wing, with 99 deluxe rooms and suites, earlier this year. Before its opening in January, key areas have been identified for enhancements and upgrades that will align the hotel to the renowned Pan Pacific brand standards of hospitality - synonymous with personalised care and a culture of subtleness, delicate service and attention to detail. Jeffrey joins Pan Pacific Hotels Group from InterContinental Hotels Group where he has been the last three years. His most recent role was that of General Manager of the InterContinental Hotel in Dalian which he assumed after a very distinguished posting with the InterContinental Hotel Hong Kong. Previously, Jeffrey also spent 10 years with Raffles International in both Singapore and in Osaka, Japan.

Preferred Hotel Group has announced the launch of Sterling Design, a special designation within the established Sterling Hotels brand, offering guests chic style and sophistication that’s accessible for any budget. Sterling Design will showcase a collection of contemporary, design-led properties, each created to appeal to the savvy holiday planner as well as the discerning business traveller. With a tagline of “As Individual as You,” Sterling Design will boast hotels and resorts from across the globe offering something for every guest. Characteristics of the new designation include contemporary architecture, sleek and understated guestrooms featuring the latest technology, a hip bar, lounge or restaurant, and a high standard of service. These properties will offer customers good local value teamed with great location and amenities.