Hard Rock International has announced the appointment of Graham Kiy as area vice president of operations, hotels, in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

His appointment at Hard Rock International will see Kiy lead the management, operations and pre-opening planning of Hard Rock Hotels throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

He joins Hard Rock International from Jumeirah Nanjing, where, as general manager and regional vice president of operations, he oversaw the operations and pre-opening phase of a number of Jumeirah properties in China.

Speaking of his appointment, Dale Hipsh, senior vice president of hotels at Hard Rock International, commented: “With more than 16 years of expertise in hotel operations, Graham is an excellent fit for the position of area vice president of operations, EMEA.

“His abundance of experience across hotel management will be an asset as we look towards our EMEA expansion, with projects planned in Budapest and London.

“We have got some big milestones coming up in the next year and so we are excited to have Graham join the team at this exciting time.”

In his role, Kiy will oversee operations of all the existing Hard Rock Hotels in the region, as well as the opening of the several new properties, which are under development as Hard Rock International continues to expand.

Kiy will maintain strong relationships with Hard Rock International’s partners in the EMEA region and help Hard Rock’s property teams to create authentic experiences for guests infused with the core foundation of the brand – music.

Having spent over 16 years in south-east Asia and the Maldives as well as 12 years in Greater China in an operational capacity, Kiy has a wealth of experience to bring with him as he steps into his new role as Area Vice President of EMEA Hotels with Hard Rock International.