Award-winning hotelier Shannon Craig returns to NZ to take up the general manager role.
Shannon Craig.
Award-winning hotelier brings fresh approach as new GM of Rydges Wellington.
Industry renowned and award-winning hotelier Shannon Craig has been appointed the new general manager of Rydges Wellington bringing a fresh focus and years of experience within the EVT stable of hotel brands. Returning to New Zealand after two decades living and working in Australia and the United Kingdom, Craig decided the time was right to return and bring her international skills and passion for people to Rydges Wellington.
Craig’s most recent role as general manager at Atura Adelaide Airport culminated in the property being awarded EVT mid-size hotel of the year in 2022. At the same time, as area general manager for South Australia and Tasmania she oversaw a total of four general managers across six EVT properties, assisting them both operationally and in delivering opening, branding, design, budgetary, and sales and marketing plans.
Prior to that, Craig spent three years as GM of QT Canberra, during which time she was named Australian Hotel Association ACT – Member of the Year in 2021 and was a finalist for the HM Awards 2021 Australian GM of the Year.
“I have done two stints in Canberra and there is something about Capital cities that makes me feel like I’m in the thick of the action, which I enjoy. Wellington city has the same buzz about it,” Craig said. “I have worked in hotels for 25 years and I still love the industry.”
Rydges Wellington reopened its doors in February to welcome guests and locals alike after refurbishment.
“The hotel is looking great and the feedback from guests is positive. My team provide genuine local hospitality, and we are focused on our community building and strengthening relationships internally and with every guest who walks through our doors,” Craig said.
EVT Hotels and Resorts GM operations New Zealand, Simon White, said Craig would bring a wealth of experience and an impressive track record in Australia to her new role this side of the Tasman: “We are delighted to have lured Shannon back to Wellington as she is a highly regarded and extremely accomplished addition to our New Zealand operations.”
In addition to the Wellington role, Craig will also take on the role of area general manager for Rydges Rotorua and Arawa Park Hotel Rotorua.
This is supplied content and not commissioned or paid for by NBR.
