Hong Kong, July 2016 – Following Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts' announcement of the opening of its fourth hotel in Hong Kong, the new property, Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong, officially announces the appointment of Nicholas Smith as general manager.

Smith was instrumental in the opening of Kerry Hotel, Pudong, Shanghai in 2011 and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, paving the way for the brand's success in the region.

With Kerry Hotel's arrival in Hong Kong, the brand's presence in Asia takes on new dimensions and Smith is undoubtedly poised to take Kerry to new heights.  The new general manager will redefine “hotel” with Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong's holistic offerings and his overwhelming passion and inspiration.  He will bring the hotel to life for everyone making their first encounter with this vibrant brand.

“People no longer look just for accommodation and dining facilities in a hotel.  In fact, we are here to be different.  We would like to be the friendly and helpful neighbour who will always be there to satisfy a variety of needs for the residents nearby.  Instead of being a newcomer, we would like to be a familiar destination as comfortable and welcoming as home, where guests feel at ease and connected to the community,” said Smith on Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong's approach.  “Residents and visitors alike will enjoy our facilities and intuitive services, from expansive harbour-view open spaces, interactive sports and recreation to family vacation packages and simply a venue to recharge and refresh.”

Smith is an avid outdoor enthusiast and a fervent supporter of outreach initiatives.  He considers it a great accomplishment to have spearheaded Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen's “Ride for Hope”, a cycling campaign for the benefit of a community in southern China. An avid cyclist himself, he was able to create awareness through “pedal power” and raised a substantial amount that assisted in the water supply and education of the said community.

Community service and environmental initiatives will undoubtedly be an important commitment for Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong. “With the proximity to a very established community, a wide range of facilities, the abundance of space and a house of passionate individuals, we are ready and eager to contribute and reach out to our neighbours and to anyone who connects with us,” said Smith.

Smith has been with the Shangri-La family for several years.  Before arriving in Hong Kong, he was previously the general manager of Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu, where he found inspiration from continuous opportunities to interact with guests and colleagues.

He began his career as a management trainee and has since experienced various aspects of hotel management, including food and beverage, event sales and banquet operations.  Apart from China, he has also held key positions in Kota Kinabalu, Florida, London, Gloucestershire, Boston, Antalya and the Middle East. With his impressive credentials and a clear purpose in mind, Smith will indeed continue his reputation in Hong Kong by making Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong a desired destination for all.

About Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong 

Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong is Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts' fourth hotel in Hong Kong.  Perched on Kowloon's vibrant waterfront and at the heart of the Hung Hom Bay community, Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong is a five-star urban resort designed by world-renowned architect and designer Andre Fu.  Winner of the “MAISON&OBJET ASIA Designers of the Year 2016”, Andre Fu is involved in numerous acclaimed projects, including The Four Seasons Tokyo, Fullerton Bay Hotel, Singapore and the Opus Suites at The Berkeley, London.

The hotel offers residents, businesses and leisure guests unique dining concepts and extraordinary spaces overlooking spectacular harbour views.

Scheduled to open in December 2016, this newest property boasts the largest hotel meeting, event and catering facilities in Hong Kong.  With the opening of the MTR's Whampoa Station in the fourth quarter, the hotel will be seamlessly connected to the rest of Hong Kong via MTR, ferry, a bus interchange station, and taxi and limousine services.  Moreover, it is only a short distance from the Tsim Sha Tsui East shopping district and attractions.

Over 60 per cent of the 545 guestrooms feature harbour views, with rooms ranging from 42 square metres for a Deluxe City View Room to 294 square metres for Kerry Hotel's stunning rooftop suite.  Guests will be swept away by breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong Island skyline, as well as the extraordinary augmented-reality effects on certain aspects of the property.  The benefits continue, including keyless entry to the guestrooms, an e-concierge service and a complimentary mini bar upon arrival.

About Kerry Hotels

Kerry Hotels are the next generation of luxury hotels! Vibrant, unpretentious and flexible. Today's traveller wants to engage all senses whether at work or at play. Kerry Hotels have a fresh and energetic vibe and offer some unexpected touches that fuel creativity yet allow time to recharge and relax. Service is less bound by protocol but is enthusiastic and intuitive.

Launched in February 2011 in Pudong, Shanghai with a sister property in Beijing, Kerry hotels are seamlessly integrated with the surrounding environment in multi-purpose complexes.  Extensive sports and wellness facilities and trend setting Food and Beverage concepts cater to the youthful and spirited business and leisure traveller looking for a quality five star hotel that focuses on their individual lifestyle needs. Kerry hotels represent passionate hospitality wrapped up in a stylish package.

For more information and reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.thekerryhotels.com.