Crowne Plaza Geelong has appointed local Karen Jackson as director of sales & marketing for the highly anticipated new hotel, set to open on the Geelong waterfront in 2026.
Bringing over 25 years of experience in the hotel and tourism industry, Jackson has held senior sales & marketing roles with globally recognised hotel brands including Marriott, Starwood, Accor, and now IHG Hotels & Resorts. Prior to starting her hotel career, Jackson worked for Tourism Victoria.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining IHG and Plenary as part of the pre-opening of Crowne Plaza Geelong on the waterfront, and to contribute to such a significant development for the region,” Jackson said.
“As a proud local, I’m passionate about showcasing everything Geelong has to offer and bringing a premium hotel offering to the city’s growing tourism and events sector. I look forward to continuing my engagement with the community and welcoming guests to experience this exciting new hotel.”
Crowne Plaza Geelong is part of the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre development set to open in 2026.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to again work with Karen who is so passionate about her home city and shares the values that we want to install within the hotel,” Crowne Plaza Geelong general manager, John Dickson, said.
“Karen is such a professional and has always had her client’s best interests at heart and has always gone above and beyond to ensure their needs are exceeded.
“IHG’s Crowne Plaza Geelong is such an exciting development and together with the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, will further encourage visitation in the region and I know Karen will support this with the passion and dedication she has always displayed.”
