John Raffoul joins the group at a time when trading at the property, which opened in April this year, is exceeding expectations.
Cheval Collection has appointed award-winning General Manager John Raffoul to Cheval Maison – The Palm Dubai. Raffoul will take up the role at the end of November, joining from Premier Inn Group, where he was cluster general manager, looking after 889 rooms in both Ibn Battuta Mall and Dragon Mart.
During his tenure, he exceeded financial targets, boosting both revenue and profits, in addition to being named in the Top 100 General Managers Power list for 2022 and 2023, and being shortlisted for the Hotelier Middle East Top 10 General Managers (Midscale) 2023 award.
Both hotels were also named in TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award 2023.
Prior to his role at Premier Inn Group, Raffoul oversaw the rebranding and renovation of the Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights Suites & Apartments. Before that, he was director of sales and marketing and director of sales with Pullman City Center Hotels and Residences and Sofitel The Palm, respectively.
John Philipson, COO, Cheval Collection, said: “We are thrilled to have a GM of such calibre joining our outstanding team at Cheval Maison – The Palm Dubai. We are confident that John will use his expertise to enhance this successful property and create exceptional experiences for both guests and staff alike.”
Raffoul said: “It is an exciting time to join this growing company, with serviced apartments becoming better understood by guests. I am looking forward to returning to the luxury segment and building on Cheval Collection’s heritage in the sector.”
Cheval Maison – The Palm Dubai is the group’s first international property and features 131 contemporary apartments ranging from one to three bedrooms, all with fully equipped kitchens.Earl ier this year Cheval Collection signed an agreement with Black Coffee by Café Younes to operate the restaurant space at the property, which is open to both guests and non-residents, ensuring a lively connection with the local community.
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