Rosie O’Brien has been appointed the role of group communications director of Rocco Forte Hotels, taking over the position from long standing board member Richard Power.

O’Brien joined Rocco Forte Hotels 12 months ago as group public relations manager.

She will take on the director role from May 5th 2015, and will be responsible for the global PR of the ten Rocco Forte Hotels properties, as well as overseeing the internal and external communications for the luxury hotel group.

She will be supported by a large communication department of ten hotel based PR managers and eight market based retained PR agencies.

O’Brien brings ten years of experience of luxury hotels to the role, most recently leading the launch of the Corinthia Hotel London with PR agency Gabrielle Shaw Communications, and launching several new properties for the Dorchester Collection, with Peretti Communications.

She has also worked with lead agencies Fleishman Hillard and Smith & Monger, as well consulting individually in the luxury and hospitality sector.

Richard Power is retiring from the position after 30 year of working with Sir Rocco Forte.

He helped found Rocco Forte Hotels in 1996.

Richard will continue to work with the company on specific projects on a part time basis.

O’Brien commented: “It is a very exciting time for Rocco Forte Hotels as the group has moved into an expansion phase.

“I am very much looking forward to the year ahead.”