Richard Kelley has been replaced as chairman of Outrigger Enterprises by his son, Charles Roy “Chuck” Kelley - pictured - with immediate affect.

David Carey continues as Outrigger’s president and chief executive officer, while Richard Kelley assumes the role of chairman emeritus at the family owned firm.

Outrigger has been nominated as Australia’s Leading Hotel Brand at the upcoming World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony in Bangkok.

“After 25 years as chairman, I felt it was time to follow the example of my father and continue the evolution of our company’s leadership by passing the reins to the next generation,” said David Carey.

“However, no one should imagine I’m retiring,” said the 77-year-old Kelley, who has long maintained a schedule of meetings, nationwide speaking engagements, leadership involvement on professional and non-profit boards, writing and international travel.

Outrigger Enterprises is one of the largest and fastest-growing privately held leisure lodging and hospitality management companies in the Asia-Pacific region.

A family-owned company with more than 60 years of hospitality experience, Outrigger represents several highly successful brands of hotels, condominiums and vacation resort properties.