ORLANDO, FL—Hard Rock International has appointed industry veteran Leong Wy Joon as SVP of hotel development for Asia and India.
Joon’s appointment is a strategic move designed to continue momentum behind the hotel brand’s global development plans, according to the company. In this new position, he will be responsible for securing new development opportunities, working with development partners and growing the Hard Rock Hotel brand footprint in the Asia and India regions.
Joon is recognized for most recently serving as executive director for Berjaya Land—a publicly listed property conglomerate. During his tenure with Berjaya, Joon spearheaded the company’s hotel division, where he was responsible for the operations and profitability of various hotels and resorts throughout Malaysia, Vietnam, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Philippines and the U.K. He also led the development of the group’s branded hotels & residences (the most recent being the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto) globally, as well as the implementation of lifestyle products and asset management strategies.
“Leong is a seasoned executive with a proven track record of successful acquisitions, developments and the implementation of effective marketing, as well as operational strategies that have resulted in exponential growth in profitability,” stated Marco Roca, chief development officer for Hard Rock International. “We are confident that his background in all areas of the hospitality industry and finance makes him a seamless fit for this position and we look forward to seeing our business continue to grow under his leadership.”