InterContinental London - The O2, managed and operated by the Arora Group, has announced the appointment of Chris Rooney as talent and culture manager.

He joins the Greenwich-Peninsula based hotel from his previous role as people and culture manager for Primark in Westfield Stratford City, where he managed the human resources function for approximately 650 employees.

Rooney began his career in the Royal Navy, where he spent four years serving in various military establishments including at the ministry of defence in Whitehall.

Upon leaving the navy, he applied this invaluable experience to a career in human resources, specialising primarily in the hospitality industry, with roles at Marriott International, the five-star One Aldwych Hotel in Covent Garden; Legoland Windsor Resort; and Radisson Edwardian Blu Hotels.

Globy Ouseph, general manager at InterContinental London – The O2, commented: “Our 350 employees are the life-blood of our hotel, so we are delighted to welcome Chris to the role of talent and culture manager.

“With his breadth of experience, and ability to build fantastic working relationships and develop employees in all stages of their careers, we are confident that Chris will help us continue to provide the perfect environment in which our employees can thrive.”

InterContinental London – The O2 boasts 453 guestrooms, a luxury spa with a 17-metre swimming pool and eight treatment rooms, as well as a collection of London’s finest destination inspired restaurants and bars, including the Michelin-guided Rosette Peninsula Restaurant.

Rooney said: “I am thrilled to be taking on the role of talent and culture manager at InterContinental London – The O2.

“This is a prestigious hotel with many different business functions - from restaurant and bar staff to housekeeping and management, all with their own individual requirements.

“However, it’s clear that the employees of all these different departments feel part of a united team, and it’s my job to ensure that this positive working environment continues to develop and evolve.

“This year we are looking forward to enhancing our engaging culture as well as continuing our work with local colleges.”