Marriott International has appointed Richard Collins as its Area VP for Sub-Saharan Africa.

Marriott International’s portfolio in the Sub-Saharan Africa region features nearly 100 properties (managed and franchised) and over 12 000 rooms across 16 markets.

Collins will oversee the company’s managed operations in the region and will be based in the company’s Cape Town office.  He takes on his new position following the announcement of Volker Heiden’s retirement, effective from the end of March.

Collins has over 30 years of hospitality experience and is a 20-year veteran of Marriott International. A graduate of the Shannon College of Hotel Management in his native Ireland, he has worked for Marriott international in Edinburgh, Dublin, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Collins said: “I am delighted to take on this new role and be part of this exciting region. Marriott International has a long-standing presence across Sub-Saharan Africa and this region continues to be an important market for the company’s current operations and future growth opportunities.”

“Richard is an experienced leader with a proven track record, and we are delighted to have him lead our operations across Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Phil Andreopoulos, Chief Operating Officer, Sub-Saharan Africa, Marriott International.