Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has appointed Francis Desjardins as Regional Vice President, Pacific Northwest, and General Manager of Fairmont Pacific Rim, bringing more than 28 years of international luxury hospitality experience to the leadership role.

In his new position, Desjardins will oversee five distinguished Fairmont properties across Canada: Fairmont Pacific Rim, Fairmont Empress, Fairmont Waterfront, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and Fairmont Vancouver Airport.

His appointment marks an important leadership development for Fairmont’s Pacific Northwest portfolio, with a focus on strengthening hotel operations, enhancing guest experiences and encouraging greater collaboration across the region.

More Than 28 Years of International Hospitality Experience

Desjardins brings an extensive background in luxury hotel management, having spent more than 28 years with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

Before taking on his new responsibilities in Canada, he served as General Manager of Fairmont Taghazout Bay in Morocco, a position he held from 2019. During his tenure, he played an important role in the resort’s successful opening and positioning as a leading luxury destination in the region.

His international career has taken him across North America, the Middle East, Asia and Africa, giving him valuable experience in managing diverse hospitality operations and luxury hotel environments.

Leadership Roles Across Global Fairmont Properties

Throughout his career, Desjardins has held several senior leadership positions within the Fairmont portfolio.

His previous appointments include General Manager at Fairmont Ajman, Director of Operations at Fairmont The Palm and Fairmont Baku Flame Towers, and Director of Rooms at Fairmont Singapore.

These roles have provided him with extensive experience in luxury hotel operations, property openings, guest services and strategic management.

His international exposure has also helped him develop a strong understanding of different hospitality markets, guest expectations and the importance of maintaining consistent service standards across luxury properties.

A Collaborative Approach to Hospitality Leadership

Desjardins is recognised for his collaborative leadership style, commitment to developing future hospitality professionals and ability to build high-performing teams.

In his new role, he will focus on bringing the five Fairmont properties closer together through stronger operational collaboration, shared expertise and a consistent commitment to guest satisfaction.

Building meaningful relationships with colleagues, guests and local communities will also remain an important part of his leadership approach.

His experience across multiple international markets is expected to bring a valuable global perspective to Fairmont’s Pacific Northwest operations.

Leading Fairmont Pacific Rim

Alongside his regional responsibilities, Desjardins will serve as General Manager of Fairmont Pacific Rim, one of Canada’s celebrated luxury hotels.

Located along Vancouver’s waterfront, the property has established a strong reputation for its contemporary architecture, distinctive culinary experiences, wellness facilities and personalised hospitality.

Since opening in 2010, Fairmont Pacific Rim has become an important part of Vancouver’s luxury hospitality landscape.

The property holds Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond ratings, reflecting its position within the city’s premium hotel segment.

Under Desjardins’ leadership, the hotel will continue to focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences while maintaining its reputation for luxury, service and contemporary design.

A Homecoming to Canada After Two Decades Abroad

Originally from Montréal, Desjardins returns to Canada with his family after more than two decades of international hospitality leadership.

His new appointment represents both a professional milestone and a return to his home country.

Looking ahead, he is eager to work with teams across the Pacific Northwest region, build on the individual strengths of each property and encourage greater collaboration throughout the Fairmont portfolio.

His leadership will also focus on strengthening the brand’s relationships with the communities in which its hotels operate.

About Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a globally recognised luxury hospitality brand within Accor’s portfolio, known for its iconic hotels, distinctive destinations and commitment to personalised guest experiences.

The brand operates properties in major cities and leisure destinations worldwide, combining heritage, architecture, local culture and luxury hospitality.

Its portfolio includes landmark properties that have become closely connected with the destinations they serve.

With Francis Desjardins taking on regional and property leadership responsibilities, Fairmont is strengthening its leadership across the Pacific Northwest while continuing to focus on exceptional service, team development and memorable guest experiences.