- Accor appoints Amitabh Rai as Chief Operating Officer for luxury portfolio across South Asia region.
- Rai brings nearly three decades hospitality experience, previously leading Ritz-Carlton and Marriott luxury properties.
- Appointment aims to strengthen operational excellence, brand growth, and premium guest experiences across markets.
The world-leading hospitality group Accor has selected Amitabh Rai to serve as Chief Operating Officer for its Luxury division in South Asia, effective from 15 January 2026.
Rai will direct operational activities and strategic planning processes for Accor's luxury and lifestyle hotel operations across South Asia which includes Raffles and Fairmont and Sofitel hotel properties. His appointment shows Accor's goal to expand its luxury presence while providing excellent guest services in a region that has a thriving hospitality industry.
Rai shows extensive operational knowledge and proven leadership abilities which he developed through his nearly 30 years of work in the hospitality sector across India and Indonesia and other regions. He started his work at Oberoi Hotels and Resorts after completing his studies at The Oberoi School of Hotel Management.
He worked for Marriott International where he advanced to senior positions which included General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore and market leadership for Hyderabad.
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Rai worked as Multi-Property General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott in Jakarta which strengthened his qualifications for managing luxury hotels.
In his new role at Accor, Rai is responsible for improving financial results and operational performance and creating unique brand identities for all the companys luxury hotels located throughout South Asia. He will lead strategic projects which improve guest satisfaction and employee development and drive innovative progress throughout the entire organization.
Accor South Asia CEO Ranju Alex said that Rai will use his people-first leadership style and strategic vision to drive growth for Accor luxury brands in this area which will define the upcoming growth period. Rai has shown his excitement for this position because he wants to create unforgettable experiences and develop luxury destinations which will meet future demands.