Pablo Graf, who has spent over 22 years with Hyatt, will be responsible for executing the company’s operational strategy in Southwest Asia, a region important to the global expansion of the Hyatt brand.

“Having begun my career in hospitality with Hyatt, and being a part of the company for over 22 years, I aim to implement Hyatt’s robust growth strategy. This region is a crucially important market for us and we are determined to ensure that our hotels offer the authentic hospitality that makes Hyatt the preferred brand for our guests,” said Graf.

A Swiss national, this is Graf’s second time in Dubai.

From 2005 to 2007, Graf was the opening GM of the award-winning Park Hyatt Dubai.

Graf began his career with Hyatt in the mid-1980s as corporate trainee at Hyatt Regency New Orleans, progressing rapidly into management positions within Hyatt hotels globally.

As GM, Graf has led Hyatt teams in Poland, Mexico, India, Thailand and Dubai. Graf also played a corporate role at Hyatt’s Chicago headquarters as GM supporting the corporate food and beverage division.

Prior to his appointment as SVP of operations with Hyatt International in Southwest Asia, Graf served as the regional VP for Rosewood Hotels & Resorts during his short stint outside Hyatt.

“The appointment of Graf highlights the importance we place on the region and its travelers — his extensive background and expertise in Asia will be utilized significantly in this position,” said Peter Fulton, MD, Hyatt International, Southwest Asia.”