Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the appointment of Stephen Ho as Group President, Asia Pacific, effective January 1, 2027. Bringing more than 40 years of international hospitality experience, Ho will lead Hyatt’s regional operations and oversee its continued growth across one of the world’s most dynamic hospitality markets.

Currently serving as President, Greater China & Growth, Asia Pacific, Ho has played an important role in strengthening Hyatt’s presence in Greater China while supporting the company’s broader expansion plans across the region.

His appointment marks an important leadership transition for Hyatt as the company continues to focus on regional growth, luxury hospitality and expanding its presence in key Asia Pacific destinations.

Stephen Ho’s Extensive Hospitality Leadership Experience

Stephen Ho brings more than four decades of experience across international hotel management, business development and regional leadership.

Before joining Hyatt in 2018, he held two significant leadership positions in the global hospitality industry. He served as President, Asia Pacific, at Starwood Hotels & Resorts and CEO, Greater China, at Marriott International.

These roles gave him extensive experience in managing diverse hotel portfolios, developing regional business strategies and navigating the changing expectations of travellers across Asia.

Since joining Hyatt, Ho has contributed to the company’s growth priorities, particularly in Greater China, while supporting its broader regional development strategy.

His understanding of the Asia Pacific hospitality market and experience with leading international hotel groups position him to take on the wider responsibilities of Group President.

Leading Hyatt’s Next Phase of Growth in Asia Pacific

In his new position, Ho will be responsible for guiding Hyatt’s operations and growth strategy across Asia Pacific.

His priorities will include strengthening the company’s market presence, supporting hotel expansion and identifying opportunities across key destinations.

With international travel continuing to evolve and demand for distinctive luxury experiences growing across several Asian markets, regional leadership will remain important to Hyatt’s long-term strategy.

Ho’s experience across major hospitality brands is expected to support the company’s efforts to build stronger market relationships, expand its portfolio and deliver memorable guest experiences.

David Udell to Retire After Decades of Leadership

The appointment follows the retirement of David Udell from his position as Group President, Asia Pacific, effective December 31, 2026.

Udell has led Hyatt’s Asia Pacific region since 2014 and will continue his association with the company as a Senior Advisor. In this capacity, he will focus on developing future hospitality leaders and supporting Hyatt’s luxury ambitions.

His association with Hyatt began in Singapore in 1982, when he joined the company as a corporate management trainee.

Over the years, Udell held several important leadership positions, including food and beverage roles across Asia. He later became the first General Manager of Park Hyatt Tokyo before taking on the General Manager position at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong.

His extensive career has been closely connected with Hyatt’s development across the region.

David Udell’s Contribution to Hyatt’s Luxury Portfolio

During his tenure as Group President, Asia Pacific, Udell played an important role in strengthening Hyatt’s regional presence and advancing its luxury hospitality business.

His leadership contributed particularly to the development of the Park Hyatt brand and the company’s broader luxury positioning across Asia Pacific.

His transition into an advisory role will allow him to continue supporting Hyatt’s leadership development and long-term luxury ambitions while passing regional responsibilities to Stephen Ho.

Hyatt’s Upcoming Leadership Transition

As Stephen Ho prepares to assume his new position on January 1, 2027, Hyatt has confirmed that his successor as President, Greater China & Growth, Asia Pacific, will be announced at a later date.

The transition represents an important step in the company’s regional leadership structure, bringing together Ho’s extensive international experience and the foundation established under Udell’s leadership.

With Asia Pacific continuing to offer significant opportunities for the global hospitality industry, Hyatt’s leadership changes reflect its commitment to sustainable growth, brand development and strengthening its presence across key markets.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation is a global hospitality company headquartered in Chicago, United States. The company operates a diverse portfolio of hotels, resorts and all-inclusive properties across luxury, lifestyle, full-service and other hospitality segments.

Its international brand portfolio includes Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency and several other recognised hotel brands serving business and leisure travellers worldwide.

Through its focus on distinctive hospitality experiences, strategic expansion and long-term partnerships, Hyatt continues to strengthen its position in the global hotel industry.

With Stephen Ho appointed as Group President, Asia Pacific, the company enters a new chapter of regional leadership, building on decades of experience and a continued focus on growth across Asia’s evolving hospitality landscape.