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Hilton Surfers Paradise has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Max Houri to the pivotal role of Commercial Director.

Having commenced his career with Hilton in 2006, Mr Houri will manage a diverse portfolio that encompasses sales, marketing and revenue management.

A graduate of multiple Hilton leadership programs, he is transferring from the company’s New Zealand Cluster where he oversaw commercial teams at three diverse properties – Hilton Auckland, Hilton Lake Taupo and Chateau on the Park Christchurch, a DoubleTree by Hilton.

Max Houri, commercial director, Hilton Surfers Paradise, said, “It’s an exciting time to join the passionate team at Hilton Surfers Paradise,”

“The property continues to evolve and there are plenty of developments in the pipeline to keep the team motivated and thinking strategically about how to best position and market our wonderful hotel.

“It’s great to see our owner continuing to invest in the property and I can’t wait to start 2020 with a bang.”

Born and bred in France, Mr Houri started his career with Hilton as Assistant Executive Housekeeper and Guest Relations Manager at the Caledonian Hilton in Edinburgh, Scotland.

This was followed by a seven-year stint at Hilton Brisbane where he initially worked in operating departments before being promoted to commercial roles including Conference & Events Sales Manager and Revenue Manager (F&B).

Mr Houri then transferred to New Zealand in 2017 where he worked as a Commercial Director and Assistant Director of Business Development before accepting the crucial Cluster role.

“I’ve been blessed to enjoy a long and fruitful career with Hilton and have never really considered working elsewhere,” said Mr Houri, who worked at Sofitel de Sevres in Paris before joining the global hospitality company.

“As long as you’re willing to work hard and are happy to spread your wings, Hilton gives you the opportunity to grow. It is more than a company for me. It is where I met my partner, allowed me to become a father and continues to make me feel part of a family every day.”

Fiona Pryde, general manager, Hilton Surfers Paradise, said, Mr Houri’s extensive commercial experience will be hugely beneficial for the hotel.

“Max has proven himself as a leader and star performer in every role he has had at Hilton and we are looking forward to the expertise and passion he will bring to his new position,” Mrs Pryde said.

Mr Houri has relocated to the Gold Coast with partner Sophia and their six-year-old daughter.