Park Hyatt Johannesburg Announces Leadership Team as it Ramps Up to Opening

1 October 2024
The 31-key luxury property will be led by experienced hospitality General Manager, Mitch Gemmell

The 31-key luxury property will be led by experienced hospitality General Manager, Mitch Gemmell.

Park Hyatt Johannesburg today announced its leadership team as it prepares for its opening in November 2024. Mitch Gemmell has been appointed General Manager of the five-star hotel, and the dynamic leadership team across operations, F&B, Human Resources, Marketing, have stepped into their new roles to successfully launch the luxury Park Hyatt brand in South Africa.

Mitch Gemmell – General Manager of Park Hyatt Johannesburg

Mitch Gemmell

General Manager of Park Hyatt Johannesburg

Mitch Gemmell brings over 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality, crafting moments of elegance and sophistication at every turn. His journey has unfolded across South Africa’s most renowned boutique properties, including SeVen Villa Hotel and Spa. His expertise, gained from pivotal roles at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa and Serengeti Estates, encompasses strategic planning, food and beverage innovation, and operational finesse. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to personalized luxury, Mitch leads the team at Park Hyatt Johannesburg with a vision that invites guests to revel in a sanctuary of refined sophistication.

David Asamoah - Director of Rooms Operations

David Asamoah

Director of Room Operations

David Asamoah, as Director of Room Operations, focuses on delivering a seamless and luxurious guest experience. His career in hospitality is an invitation to discover a world where every detail is thoughtfully crafted to deliver an exquisitely seamless experience. With a deep understanding of guest services, he has meticulously balanced the art of room operations across properties like Winston Hotel.

Debi van Flymen - Director of Food and Beverage

Debi van Flymen

Director of Food and Beverage

Debi van Flymen, Director of Food and Beverage, is celebrated for her forward-thinking approach to transforming dining venues into destination experiences. Her journey through fine dining is nothing short of magical, with her tenure as Wine Director at the renowned Restaurant Mosaic in France showcasing her ability to craft gastronomic experiences that are both deeply personal and universally pleasing. At Park Hyatt Johannesburg, Debi’s vision is to create works of art on every plate, with each dish stimulating the senses and leaving a lasting impression. Her commitment to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients and her exquisite attention to detail ensure that every meal becomes a luxurious exploration of South Africa’s rich culinary heritage.

Christopher Tustian - Executive Chef

Christopher Tustian

Executive Chef

Christopher Tustian, Executive Chef, brings his creative culinary flair to elevate the dining experience at Park Hyatt Johannesburg with unique, locally inspired menus. With experience spanning prestigious international kitchens, Christopher strikes a perfect balance between tradition and innovation. His dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients, often locally, allows him to craft dishes that surprise and delight. Christopher’s touch ensures that every dining moment is an elegant and harmonious experience, inviting guests to revel in the pleasures of world-class cuisine.

Neesan Chetty - Human Resource Manager

Neesan Chetty

Human Resource Manager

Neesan Chetty is dedicated to cultivating a positive work culture and driving employee engagement. with over seven years in luxury hospitality, specializes in recruitment, employee relations, and strategic HR planning. He previously worked with Gold Reef City Casino and Suncoast Casino.

Ankita Raturi – Marketing and Communications Manager

Ankita Raturi

Marketing and Communications Manager

Ankita Raturi is set to enhance the hotel’s brand presence with fresh marketing strategies. Having worked with iconic hospitality brands such as Marriott Hotels and The Oberoi Group, Ankita’s expertise lies in curating marketing campaigns that provoke the imagination and invite guests to discover the unique pleasures of a stay. Her ability to balance creativity with measurable impact has earned her accolades for driving brand awareness and engagement.

""I am very honoured to take on the General Manager role at Park Hyatt Johannesburg.", said Mitch Gemmel, "As we prepare for the highly anticipated opening of the property, I am truly excited to work with the amazing team to launch the Park Hyatt brand in South Africa and deliver memorable experiences for our guests."

In addition to the Park Hyatt Johannesburg team appointments, Hyatt hotels in South Africa have announced two cluster appointments.

Rhianon Rees - Group Executive Housekeeper

Rhiannon Rees

Group Executive Housekeeper

Experienced and seasoned Group Executive Housekeeper, Rhiannon Rees has over 25 years in luxury hospitality, having held key leadership roles with renowned brands like Sun International and InterContinental Hotels. Currently, as the Group Executive Housekeeper at Hyatt Hotels South Africa, Rhiannon is responsible for overseeing operations across multiple properties, ensuring exceptional guest satisfaction and maintaining the highest housekeeping standards. Her extensive expertise spans staff management, operational efficiency, and maintaining luxury standards across hotels, resorts, and private residences.

Nicolaas Van der Walt_Group Exec Chef- Pastry

Nicholas van der Walt

Group Executive Pastry Chef

Chef Nicolas, Group Pastry Chef for Hyatt Hotels South Africa, brings over 18 years of international experience, known for his award-winning creations and leadership, he elevates the dessert offerings across Hyatt’s properties. A passionate mentor, Chef Nicolas is committed to innovation, sustainability, and nurturing the next generation of pastry chefs.

Riannon and Nicolas will be based at Park Hyatt Johannesburg and will be responsible for their departments across four Hyatt branded hotels, Park Hyatt Johannesburg, Hyatt House Johannesburg Rosebank, Hyatt House Johannesburg Sandton and Hyatt Regency Cape Town.

Park Hyatt Johannesburg is set to open its doors late November 2024. For future bookings and more information on Park Hyatt Johannesburg, please visit www.hyatt.com

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