IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced senior appointments for the opening of its newest Australasian property, voco™ Melbourne Central, with more than 200 years’ combined experience across the leadership team.
General Manager of voco Melbourne Central, Erik Stuebe, is leading the team set to launch the first voco new-build property in Australia this Thursday 28 April 2022.
Beginning his career in Europe, Mr Stuebe has worked for several hotel groups around the world. He joined voco Melbourne Central in September 2021 after almost six years as General Manager of InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto. Mr Stuebe is also Area GM for Victoria and Tasmania.
“It’s the coming together of a dream team with years of experience in all facets of hotel operations,” Mr Stuebe says.
“With the finishing touches on voco Melbourne Central currently being completed, we’re incredibly proud of this truly original hotel in the heart of Melbourne. Our personnel will deliver refreshing hospitality for all our guests, and many of our team members have already worked together in previous roles.”
The senior management team includes other alumni from the multi-award-winning InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto: Christine Bridge, Celeste Clarke, Jackie Liu, Ian Lee and most recently, Front of House Manager Hobin Lee.
Christine Bridge is voco Melbourne Central’s Director of Sales & Marketing. Her career spans across various hotel groups internationally, including the United Kingdom and South Korea, in sales, events and marketing.
Over at the hotel’s restaurant, Blacksmith Brasserie, Ian Lee is the new Executive Chef of voco Melbourne Central. Originally from South Korea, Mr Lee’s career spans nearly 30 years in luxury hotels globally. Chef Lee has acquired numerous prestigious accolades over the years, including winning the World Culinary Competition, the Black Box Culinary Competition Gold Medal and Potential of People Award.
Mr Stuebe says with more than 30 voco locations globally, including two in Australia, Melbourne was a natural fit for the group’s flagship property.
“Like voco, our city dares to be different and is full of style and gems to be discovered. voco Melbourne Central is about modern charm and connection. It’s truly inviting with the indulgences of a hotel, and while it has an upscale look, it has a laidback spirit.
“Our team looks forward to opening our hotel doors to the world this Thursday and welcoming our first guests,” Mr Stuebe says.
