Kerzner International has announced two significant leadership appointments as part of a brand-new management structure designed to position the company for continued growth and success.

Brand verticals

Kerzner is renowned for creating pioneering brands from the larger-than-life Atlantis to the ultra-luxury One&Only Resorts, and recently an industry-first with the launch of SIRO, the ultimate fitness and recovery hotel. The new structure features an enhanced focus on brand verticals, with One&Only, Atlantis, and SIRO/Rare Finds being led by a divisional head, dedicated to delivering an outstanding guest experience, rooted in the identity and values of each unique brand.

This focused, brand-led approach ensures that each one-of-a-kind brand within the Kerzner group is protected and enhanced, it allows greater agility in responding to industry changes and facilitates continued creativity and innovation. The appointment of Mark Kirby, promotion of Mattheos Georgiou, and welcoming of Paul Baker, to lead each of the divisions, also underscores Kerzner’s commitment to strong leadership, as their extensive experience and proven track records will be invaluable in steering their teams towards achieving the company’s strategic objectives.

“We are focused on fostering exceptional leadership that drives our brands forward,” Kerzner International CEO, Philippe Zuber, said. “The appointments of Mark Kirby as president of One&Only and Mattheos Georgiou as senior vice president of SIRO and Rare Finds, as well as Paul Baker’s role as president of Atlantis, are pivotal to our vision for Kerzner International’s excellence.

“Kerzner is renowned for creating trailblazing hospitality experiences that disrupt the sector, and these strategic appointments underscore our commitment to protect and enhance our innovative brands, demonstrating our dedication to nurturing talent and driving sustainable growth, positioning Kerzner for continued success in the dynamic hospitality landscape.”

Mark Kirby appointed as president of One&Only

Mark Kirby joins Kerzner International as president of One&Only, reporting directly to Philippe Zuber effective 6 January 2025. Mark brings over 25 years of exceptional leadership experience in the hospitality industry, with a proven track record of operational excellence, strategic growth, and delivering transformative guest experiences.

Most recently, Mark served as chief operating officer and head of hospitality at Emaar Hospitality Group, where he oversaw a diverse portfolio of over 30 hotels, residences, and leisure clubs across the UAE, GCC, and international markets.

His tenure was marked by the successful development and opening of multiple hotels and the expansion of the group’s international footprint, including flagship properties under renowned brands such as Armani Hotels & Resorts, Address Hotels + Resorts, Palace Hotels + Resorts, and Vida Hotels & Resorts.

Mark’s people-oriented leadership style prioritises both guest and teams, fostering a culture of exceptional service and innovative thinking. Known for empowering high-performing teams, he inspires colleagues to deliver extraordinary and memorable experiences. As president of One&Only, Mark oversees the brand’s global portfolio, spearheading its expansion into both established and emerging markets, and enhancing its reputation for unmatched, one-of-a-kind experiences.

Mattheos Georgiou promoted to senior VP of SIRO and Rare Finds

Last month, Mattheos Georgiou joined Kerzner International as global vice president of operations and was promoted to senior vice president last month. Since joining, he has played a pivotal role in enhancing global operational standards, positioning Kerzner for sustained success.

Mattheos’ collaborative nature and unwavering commitment to quality have been instrumental in elevating the guest experience and supporting internal growth. His leadership has led to the promotion of several resort managers to general managers, reflecting his outstanding performance and ability to shape the future of SIRO and Rare Finds. Under his guidance, both brands will continue to expand their global footprint while maintaining their unique identities.

Mark and Mattheos’ leadership further strengthens the executive team, reinforcing Kerzner’s commitment to investing in experienced leaders who elevate the guest experience and drive sustainable growth.

Paul Baker at the helm of Atlantis

International hospitality leader, Paul Baker, joined Kerzner in August, to spearhead the iconic Atlantis brand. With nearly 20 years of international experience, Baker brings an abundance of knowledge and expertise to Atlantis Resorts. His impressive career in hospitality and entertainment, including key markets such as Las Vegas, USA, Malaysia and Macau, China, is a testament to his leadership skills. Baker’s extensive knowledge of managing and leading teams in diverse cultural and complex operational landscapes uniquely positions him to grow the Atlantis brand to even greater heights.