29 June 2017 (Hong Kong) – Wharf Hotels has appointed international hotelier Brian Connelly as General Manager of its deluxe urban resort hotel, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

Connelly brings with him a wealth of experience in various leadership roles spanning over 38 years with prominent hotels and resorts in Asia Pacific, Middle East and the United States, making him the ideal successor for Cebu’s hospitality landmark perched atop the hills of Cebu city.

A Bachelor of Science graduate in Hotel and Restaurant Administration from Oklahoma State University, Connelly most recently held the position of General Manager for Angsana Laguna Phuket & Angsana Villa Resort in Thailand. Earlier in his career, Connelly held senior management roles around the globe with Hilton Asia Pacific and Middle East, Oakwood Asia Pacific, Fairmont Hotels Middle East and Intercontinental Hotels in Thailand and China respectively.

“It is exciting to be on the beautiful island of Cebu. I am honoured to have the opportunity to be General Manager of this wonderful hotel, Marco Polo Plaza. I look forward to continuing the success of the hotel and working with the team to grow and enhance the operation. Marco Polo Hotels have a fantastic reputation in the Philippines and I look forward to further enhancing our brand,” said Connelly about his new position.

Connelly’s goals will include ensuring the hotel continues to deliver profits across all market segments and build the brand’s presence in Cebu and its feeder markets.

“We are delighted to welcome Brian to our award-winning Marco Polo Hotels family. Brian’s penchant for Asian hospitality embellished with his eagle-eye vision for driving profitable business and passionate leadership will help guide the property in its continuous improvement programmes as well as strengthen its leading position in the city of Cebu,” said Philippe Caretti, Vice President, Operations for Wharf Hotels.

Connelly is a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the International Food & Wine Society, and is the founding member of Son of Bacchus. He is an oenophile who enjoys reading and working out at the gym.

More information is available at marcopolohotels.com and enquiries may be sent to mpplaza@marcopolohotels.com. Real time social media updates are posted on facebook.com/marcopolocebu or on Twitter at @5StarInCebu.