20 Jan 2026
Something is happening at Ovolo Hotels.
Over the past quarter, Ovolo has been setting the foundation for what comes next. As the brand moves into its new partnership with Wyndham, the focus has been simple: strengthen the core, invest in the right people, and set the business up for smart, sustainable growth.
To support this next chapter, Ovolo Hotels is welcoming new senior leaders and elevating standout internal talent across development, finance, operations, commercial and revenue, all with one goal in mind: building a future-ready hotel brand that leads with personality and performs with purpose.
Building for Growth
Joining the executive team is Chris Batterham, appointed Chief Development Officer. With a strong track record across Asia Pacific, Batterham brings deep experience in portfolio growth, brand expansion, rebrands and pre-openings. His appointment signals Ovolo's intent to grow thoughtfully, with the right partners and the right projects.
Ovolo also welcomes Brett Popplewell as Group Chief Financial Officer. While new to hospitality, Popplewell brings serious financial firepower from sectors including banking and insurance, strengthening Ovolo's commercial foundations as the business looks ahead.
Backing Our Own Talent
Ovolo's internal talent bench continues to shine, with several key promotions recognising leadership, performance and future potential:
• Nick Wright, HM Awards Finalist for General Manager of the Year, steps into the role of Commercial Director, bringing a sharp eye for brand elevation, performance and stakeholder value.
• Christos Pavlidis is appointed Area General Manager, Melbourne, known for challenging convention and pushing innovation in a fast-moving market.
• James Clark takes on Area General Manager, Sydney & Canberra, leading high-performing teams across one of Ovolo's most diverse portfolios.
• Kate Watt, TAA Revenue & Yield Talent of the Year, will now lead revenue strategy across the entire Ovolo portfolio.
• Loren Walsh joins as Marketing & Communications Executive, supporting brand storytelling, visibility and connection across the group.
People First, Always
In a move that reflects Ovolo's people-led philosophy, Nicole Downs steps into the role of Managing Director, Australia, transitioning from Group Director of People & Performance. With six years of shaping culture and performance across the business, Downs will now oversee both operations and results nationally.
Downs not only believes deeply in the brand but is a genuine advocate for the industry it inhabits, driving positive change and giving back to the community. Known for leading with heart and intent, Downs reinforces the belief that true commercial success is human-centric, built on meaningful experiences for guests and stakeholders, empowered teams, and strong, values-led partnerships.
What's Next
These leadership moves mark a defining moment for Ovolo Hotels; confident, clear- headed and ready for what's ahead. This is Ovolo's next era. And we're only just getting started.
-ENDS-
About Ovolo Hotels
The Ovolo Group was founded by entrepreneur Girish Jhunjhnuwala and first entered the real estate market in 2002 before expanding into the hotel industry in 2010. By providing guests with the best in effortless living across hotels and food and beverage outlets, Ovolo Hotels quickly cemented itself as one of Hong Kong and Australia's most dynamic independent owner-operated hospitality firms.
For media enquiries or further information, please contact:
Loren Walsh
Marketing and Communications Executive:
0421 947 737
