The Star Entertainment Group has recently announced the pending appointment of Daniel Finch as the CEO of its Brisbane operations, subject to regulatory approvals. With an extensive background spanning over two decades in the travel and hospitality industry, Finch brings a wealth of experience to the role. This significant development follows the recent appointment of Jessica Mellor as the CEO of Gold Coast operations in October. The strategic placement of CEOs in key venues – Sydney, Gold Coast, and now Brisbane – underscores The Star Entertainment’s commitment to leadership excellence.
Professional Journey:
Daniel Finch’s professional journey commenced in 2000 when he assumed the role of Accommodation and Events Sales Manager at the prestigious Millennium Mayfair London. Over the years, he has held pivotal positions, including a noteworthy stint as the Director of Sales at Sofitel Brisbane Central and a significant tenure of over five and a half years at Constellation Hotel Group, where he served as the National Director of Sales, Revenue Management, and Strategy. His most recent role saw him at the helm as the Managing Director at Expedia Australia, a position he held for over nine years, starting in November 2014. Finch’s global footprint is evident in his roles across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Asia.
Leadership in a Global Context:
The announcement of Daniel Finch as the CEO of Brisbane operations at The Star Entertainment highlights the global perspective he brings to the role. His diverse experience in different regions and cultures positions him well to navigate the complexities of the hospitality industry. This international exposure is an asset as The Star Entertainment Group continues to expand its presence globally.
Strategic Vision for Growth:
Group CEO and Managing Director Robbie Cooke emphasized the strategic significance of Finch’s appointment, especially as The Star Entertainment prepares to open The Star Brisbane and the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane precinct. With Finch’s track record in launching new hotels, his expertise aligns seamlessly with the organization’s growth objectives. The appointment of venue-specific CEOs underscores a commitment to tailored strategies for each location, ensuring a cohesive yet adaptable approach to the diverse markets in Sydney, the Gold Coast, and Brisbane.
Key Objectives and Vision:
In expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Daniel Finch articulated his ambition to drive a high-performance culture within the team. He envisions delivering five-star services and experiences for the millions who will visit The Star Entertainment’s Brisbane operations annually. The timing of his appointment is particularly poignant, aligning with what he believes is the most important and exciting period in the history of the business, marked by the impending opening of The Star Brisbane.
Comparison with Gold Coast Operations:
The appointment of Daniel Finch follows closely on the heels of Jessica Mellor’s promotion to CEO of Gold Coast operations. This dual move to position leaders for specific venues underscores The Star Entertainment’s commitment to localized leadership, tailoring strategies to the unique dynamics of each region. The strategic deployment of CEOs in Sydney, Gold Coast, and Brisbane reflects a holistic approach to managing the diverse portfolio of The Star Entertainment Group.
Upcoming Leadership in Sydney:
The announcement also hinted at the advanced stages of the search for a CEO in Sydney, completing the trifecta of leadership positions within the organization. The careful selection of leaders for each venue signals a meticulous approach to aligning leadership with the unique characteristics and opportunities presented by each location.
As Daniel Finch formally assumes his role in mid-February, The Star Entertainment Group enters a new chapter marked by strategic leadership, global vision, and a commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences. The alignment of leadership with specific venues, coupled with Finch’s extensive background, positions The Star Entertainment for continued success and growth. The impending opening of The Star Brisbane and the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane precinct adds an extra layer of significance to this leadership transition, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s history.