Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has appointed Samuel Porreca as general manager of Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como.

Due to open in spring 2019, the lakefront property will be Mandarin Oriental’s first European resort and will complement the group’s hotel in nearby Milan.

With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Porreca began his career in Rome, with management roles soon following at Villa La Vedetta, a Relais & Châteaux property in Florence, and at JK Place Capri.

In 2012, Porreca launched JK Place Roma, which received a string of awards under his leadership.

“In recent years, Lake Como has become a premier destination for luxury travellers.

“I am thrilled to be able to work with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group to create a magnificent property in one of Italy’s most exclusive destinations,” Porreca said.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group area vice president, operations, Italy, Milan Luca Finardi, will support Porreca in his new position, playing a vital role in the development of the resort over the coming years.

Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como offers five-star lakefront splendour on the shores of Lake Como.

Coupled with its serene setting, nestled between luxuriant botanical park and lake, the resort’s 21 rooms, 52 suites and junior suites and two private villas exude glamour and style.