Marriott International has strengthened its leadership team with key general manager appointments in Australia and New Zealand – Steve Molnar and Jai Leighton.
The new appointments reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to developing exceptional leadership talent from within the company and delivering operational excellence across its hotels in the region.
“It is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Steve Molnar and Jai Leighton into important general manager positions,” Marriott International area vice president Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific, Jason Nuell, said.
“Both of these leaders bring extensive experience, proven results and a deep understanding of our brands. I look forward to working closely with them as they continue to drive performance, enhance guest experiences and strengthen owner relationships.”
Steve Molnar
Steve Molnar takes on the role of multi property general manager for Melbourne Marriott Hotel Docklands and AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank. He joins from Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas, where he led the property to record financial results and significant operational enhancements.
Steve began his hospitality career in 1999 at Sheraton Noosa Resort before moving into sales and marketing leadership roles in Fiji and then operations in Sydney. Since 2014, he has overseen the refurbishment and repositioning of Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas, earning multiple accolades including Travel & Leisure’s Luxury Award as Australia’s Best General Manager in 2023 and 2024.
Jai Leighton
Jai Leighton takes on the role of general manager at Le Meridien Melbourne. Jai joined Marriott International in 2020 as director of operations to launch JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, the first property under the JW Marriott brand in the Australia, New Zealand and Pacific region. In late 2022, he relocated to Auckland as hotel manager at JW Marriott Auckland, the first in the New Zealand market.
With over 20 years of hospitality experience in luxury and five-star hotels across Australia and New Zealand, Jai has most recently led Four Points by Sheraton Auckland, as general manager, driving commercial growth, market share and guest satisfaction. His leadership style is centred on collaboration, strong owner relationships and building high-performing teams.
“Marriott International is proud to offer strong career progression opportunities for our associates, supported by development programs, demonstrating a commitment to retaining top talent,” Nuell said.
“These appointments reflect the depth of expertise and leadership within our organisation and position us well for continued growth in the Australia and New Zealand region.”
