Hospitality industry icon and founder of Protea Hotels, Otto Stehlik, has joined his son, Guy Stehlik at BON Hotels, which was founded by Guy in 2012.
In 2014, Otto Stehlik successfully acquisitioned the Protea Group into Marriot and will now assist in developing and expanding BON’s hospitality brand internationally.
“Not only is my father an inspiration, but he also brings unparalleled knowledge and intellectual capital to the table – in essence we are preserving and nurturing a legacy” said Guy Stehlik
Otto Stehlik’s new role will be advising and analyzing potential deals, sharing knowledge and opening doors for the company. He added that he is enthusiastic about the potential of BON Hotels and believe Africa needs progressive thinking in the hotel and hospitality sectors.
Justin Barnette had been promoted to Manager of Marketing and Communications for the United States office of South African Tourism.
In 2008, Barnette began with SAT and successfully managed various partnerships. Most recently, he led SA Tourism’s collaboration with Carnegie Hill on the Ubuntu Music and Arts of South Africa Festival.
Barnette launched the ‘Point of View” video series and holds the leadership position in SATourism’s “What’s Your Big 5?” campaign.
As the new Manager of Marketing and Communications, Barnette’s responsibilities will include coordinating public relations and media buying as well as managing the marketing and communication strategy for SAT U.S.
Renowned Kenyan conservationist Dr. Richard Leaky has been appointed to Chair the Kenyan Wildlife Service (KSW) Board. Leaky originally served as Director for KWS in the 90’s.
President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed Leaky in the hopes he will achieve a public-private partnership to eradicate all poaching on Kenyan’s endangered wildlife.
The Dragonfly Africa Group has appointed Clinton Els to the board of directors, in the role of Director of Incentives and Travel. Over the years Els has strategically developed and overseen Dragonfly’s existing and new business. Debbie Holmes has been promoted to Manager of incentives. She has been almost seven years with the group.
Executive Chef Wayne Walkinshaw has joined Valley Lodge and Spa in Magaliesburg.
Walkinshaw is a hugely acclaimed Chef throughout South Africa. He has 24 years’ experience and has worked in Walkersons Country Manor and Cybele Forest Lodge and Health Spa.
GM Laurence McGrath says: “Wayne is ticking all our boxes in executive chef requirements to further enhance the attractions to our four-star lodge, which has undergone superb upgrades over the past 6 years and his alchemy in creating a delectable dining experience is certainly complementing our award-winning lodge and spa.”
