Kerzner International Holdings, the international developer and operator of destination resorts, ultra-luxury hotels and residences, has appointed Jean-Gabriel Pérès as its new president and chief executive.

Pérès will be leaving Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, where has been chief executive for 17 years. He was instrumental in driving the global expansion of the company into Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

Mohammed Al Shaibani, executive director and chief executive of Investment Corporation of Dubai, and chair of Kerzner International, said: “Jean-Gabriel joins us at a very opportune moment in our journey as we embark on an accelerated growth and expansion plan to take Kerzner to new places around the world, from China to Mexico and beyond.”

Pérès has spent more than 30 years in the hospitality and luxury retail industries. He spent 11 years with Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, following his tenure with engineering firm Matra/Lagardere Group, now known as EADS, where he led strategic partnerships in the USA and the Middle East.

Born and raised in France, Pérès holds a master’s degree in business administration from the prestigious ESSEC Business School in Paris. He serves on the boards of directors of several corporations and has been an active member of the World Travel and Tourism Council.

His official start date will be announced in due course.