Crystalbrook Collection Hotels and Resorts has announced two senior leadership appointments, promoting long-serving hospitality leader Carl Taranto to Group Director, Hotel Operations, and welcoming experienced hotel executive Tim Quarm as Area General Manager, Cairns.
Taranto has been part of Crystalbrook Collection since the group’s formative years and has played a pivotal role in the growth of the portfolio, leading hotel openings and operations across multiple markets. In his new role, he joins Crystalbrook Collection’s Executive Leadership Team and will oversee hotel operations across the key portfolio, driving operational excellence, guest experience and team performance.
Based in Newcastle, Taranto will concurrently oversee Crystalbrook Kingsley as General Manager alongside his group responsibilities, supported by the hotel’s established leadership team, including Hotel Manager Hayley Seymour.
Quarm joins Crystalbrook Collection with more than 30 years’ international hospitality leadership experience across Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. As Area General Manager, Cairns, he will oversee Crystalbrook Riley, Crystalbrook Flynn, and Crystalbrook Bailey, leading the performance, operations and guest experience of the group’s three Cairns hotels.
Throughout his career, Quarm has led luxury hotel operations, major repositioning projects and high-performing teams for globally recognised hospitality groups, including across Accor brands, and JA Resorts & Hotels.
Commenting on the appointments, Crystalbrook Collection CEO Geoff York said:
“These appointments mark an exciting next chapter for Crystalbrook as we continue to strengthen our leadership team across the business. Carl’s promotion is a reflection of the exceptional leadership he has demonstrated since joining the group eight years ago, while Tim’s international experience and people-first approach make him an outstanding addition to our Cairns team.”
Taranto said the appointment was a proud milestone after eight years with Crystalbrook Collection:
“It’s been a privilege to help grow the business and work alongside such passionate teams across the portfolio. As we continue to expand, I’m looking forward to supporting our hotels to deliver exceptional guest experiences while building on the culture and values that make Crystalbrook Collection unique.”
Quarm added he was excited to join Crystalbrook Collection and lead the Cairns portfolio:
“Crystalbrook’s hotels have built a strong reputation for delivering distinctive guest experiences, and I’m looking forward to working with the talented local teams to build on that success. Great hospitality starts with great people, and I’m excited to support the continued growth of the Cairns properties and the wider business.”
Taranto and Quarm’s appointments come as Crystalbrook Collection continues to strengthen its leadership team ahead of the opening of Crystalbrook Sam in Adelaide later this year and Crystalbrook Aurora in Canberra in 2027.
