Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide recently announced the appointment of Stephan Vanden Auweele as GM of the Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel to spearhead the extensive renovation of the landmark hotel. The hotel also appointed Stuart Sage as executive chef to oversee the hotels six food and beverage outlets.

Belgian born Auweele holds over 20 years of experience in opening and managing hotels around the world. In his role as GM of Sheraton Dubai Creek, Auweele will overlook the reopening and operations of the hotel and also introduce new Sheraton brand concepts within the property.

Auweele moves from his role as GM of Aloft Abu Dhabi, which he opened in 2009. He played a pivotal role in introducing the Aloft brand in the Middle East. Auweele was also responsible for the openings of Sheraton Algarve and Sheraton La Caleta. His career has taken him across the globe, including Belgium, Denmark, Thailand, Hong Kong, South Korea, Portugal and Spain. He speaks seven languages - English, Dutch, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese and Danish.

“Sheraton Dubai Creek was our first property in the UAE and this renovation will restore the history of the hotel as an iconic landmark in Dubai,” said Guido de Wilde, SVP, regional director for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Middle East. “With his previous experience with Sheraton, strong leadership and enthusiasm, we are excited to have Stephan lead the renovation and reopening of the hotel.”

Another key appointment for the hotel is new Executive Chef Stuart Sage who brings nearly 19 years of experience to the Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel. Sage’s previous Starwood positions include chef de cuising at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina for two years and research and development head chef of Le Meridien Dubai.

Sage began his hospitality career in the UK, where he was born.