Renowned hotelier and asset manager David Fraser has been appointed Vice President Operations for the Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems brands across the Pacific. His appointment comes at a transformative time for the brands, with Sofitel undergoing a major renewal phase and MGallery set for strategic expansion in the region.
Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems, highlighted the Pacific’s significance for the company’s growth:
“Australia has always been a key market for our Sofitel and MGallery brands, home to flagship properties such as Sofitel Darling Harbour and MGallery Manly Pacific, winner of the Prix de Versailles. 2024 has been a record-breaking year for our luxury brands, with 90 new hotels signed and major renovations, including Sofitel Sydney Wentworth. David’s expertise will be instrumental in expanding our presence in the Pacific, a region at the forefront of sustainability and responsible luxury.”
Fraser brings over 25 years of industry experience, having previously served as Head of Asset Management at Axsia HTL. His career includes senior roles with Marriott International, Starwood, and Hyatt, and a decade-long tenure with Accor from 1995 to 2005.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Fraser stated:
“I’m excited to return to Accor and work with these prestigious brands. My passion lies in repositioning and elevating hotels, optimising performance, and enhancing guest experiences. This role presents an incredible opportunity to bring that expertise to some of the Pacific’s most iconic luxury properties.”
Markus Keller, Chief Operating Officer for Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems, welcomed Fraser’s appointment:
“David’s expertise in hotel operations and asset management will be invaluable in driving the renewal of Sofitel and strengthening the MGallery brand in the Pacific. With significant investments, new openings, and renovations, his leadership will further our success in this key market.”
Fraser’s remit will include 21 luxury hotels across Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, including Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, Sofitel Adelaide, Sofitel Wellington, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, and Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, which recently completed a $70 million renovation. MGallery properties, including Manly Pacific Hotel Sydney, The Porter House Hotel Sydney, Hotel Chadstone Melbourne, and Hotel St Moritz Queenstown, are also poised for growth. Additionally, the Pacific is a strategic focus for the development of Emblems, with the global brand aiming to expand to 60 properties by 2030.
Commenting on his vision, Fraser added:
“My goal is to make Sofitel the premier luxury brand in the Pacific, distinguished by its French elegance, while expanding MGallery as the region’s fastest-growing boutique luxury brand. I’m also keen to explore opportunities for bringing the Emblems brand to this market.”
Originally from New Zealand, Fraser has lived in Sydney for the past 20 years with his wife Martine and twin sons, Jack and Dylan. A passionate rugby fan and avid traveller, he enjoys exploring new destinations and creating unforgettable experiences with his family.
