Anantara Hotels, Resorts, and Spas announces key leadership appointments in Europe, bringing seasoned professionals to its properties. The Group has appointed Gaudéric Harang and Wael Soueid as general managers for its estates in Europe.
Gaudéric Harang, a seasoned professional in the luxury hospitality industry, has been appointed as the general manager of the Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, marking the brand’s debut in France. Harang, a French national, brings over five years of experience with Anantara and Minor Hotels, having recently served as the general manager at the sustainability-focused Anantara Sir Bani Yas Resorts in the UAE.
Harang’s career with Anantara began in 2016 as the Resident Manager for Anantara Dhigu, Anantara Veli, and Naladhu Private Island in the Maldives, where the resort was recognised as the Best Resort in the World in the Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards. Later, as General Manager at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in Northern Thailand, Harang introduced the innovative “Jungle Bubbles” concept, allowing guests to sleep under the stars surrounded by rescued elephants.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Harang stated, “It is an honour and a privilege to be part of the Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, a landmark property in the heart of the French Riviera. I am excited to work with the talented team here and to offer our guests an unforgettable experience of Anantara’s signature hospitality and service. I am also very happy to be back in my native France and to help Anantara’s expansion in Europe, a market with great potential and opportunities for the brand.”
On the other hand, Wael Soueid, also a French national, joins Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort in Portugal as the new general manager, transitioning from his role at Anantara Tozeur Sahara Resort in Tunisia. Soueid’s innovative approach at Tozeur Sahara Resort included creating unique guest experiences such as the Berber Nights experiences, horse riding, and introducing a Green Zone, immersing guests in the desert landscape and culture.
Soueid’s extensive career includes executive positions at properties in the UAE between 2011 and 2019, including serving as the Area General Manager for Abu Dhabi properties, such as the iconic Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort & Spa by Anantara. Additionally, he served as Executive Director at Infinity des Lumières between 2021 and 2022, contributing to establishing the project as the largest digital art centre in the Middle East.
Expressing his excitement, Soueid said, “I am delighted to join Anantara Vilamoura at the time when the much-loved property is launching an exciting new concept across two distinct areas—one designed especially for family fun and the other exclusively for adults to enjoy peaceful privacy and romance.”
Giles Selves, Senior Vice President of Luxury Hotels for Minor Hotels Europe, expressed confidence in the new appointments, stating, “Wael and Gaudéric are seasoned leaders with a proven track record of driving revenue growth, guest satisfaction, and operational excellence. Both bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our properties in Europe, and I am confident that they will take their respective hotels to new heights of success. I look forward to working with them to elevate our product and nurture the next generation of hoteliers to maintain the Anantara legacy.”
