Glen Macdonald gets appointed at the General Manager at Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Glen Macdonald, a distinguished figure in the Cairns hotel and tourism sector, has been named the General Manager of Cairns Harbourside Hotel, which is owned by Taisei Kanko Australia Pty Limited. This appointment follows the hotel’s decision to relaunch as a self-managed, independent entity after being under global management for two decades.

Macdonald brings to this role a rich background in hospitality, having significantly contributed to the success of Fitzroy Island Resort over a 12-year tenure as General Manager and CEO, where his innovative approaches to management and marketing were key to the resort’s improved performance.

His experience extends to management positions at Sheraton Port Douglas and within significant hospitality groups in Darwin and North Queensland. Macdonald’s deep roots in Cairns, coupled with his experience as a Board member of the Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators, positions him well to guide Cairns Harbourside Hotel into its next chapter. The hotel aims to continue contributing to the recognition of Cairns and Far North Queensland as a top tropical resort destination under his leadership.

Taisei Kanko, a pivotal force in Cairns’ tourism development since acquiring Harbourside in 1991 and expanding it in 1993, has played a vital role in the region’s growth. The expansion added numerous rooms to the property, all featuring private balconies with scenic views, in addition to other amenities like the Harbourside Bar & Kitchen, a swimming pool, spa, and conference facilities.

With Macdonald at the helm, the hotel’s management team aims to reinforce its identity as an independent hotel that reflects the tropical essence of Cairns. Plans for a revamp include introducing new signage, launching a new website, and refurbishing rooms with updated furnishings and bathroom upgrades.

Macdonald expressed his enthusiasm about leading Cairns Harbourside Hotel, drawing parallels to his transformative work at Fitzroy Island Resort. He is eager to contribute to the hotel’s new vision and further its legacy in the development of Cairns as a prime tourism destination.

[Image Source: Hospitality Net]

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