Hyatt Hotels Corporation has appointed Stephen Ho as Group President, Asia Pacific, effective January 1, 2027. He will succeed David Udell, who will retire from the position on December 31, 2026, after leading the region since 2014.
Udell will remain with Hyatt as a Senior Advisor. In this role, he will focus on developing future hospitality leaders and supporting the company’s luxury business.
David Udell to Continue as Senior Advisor
Udell joined Hyatt in Singapore in 1982 as a corporate management trainee. During his career, he held several food and beverage leadership positions across Asia.
He later became the first General Manager of Park Hyatt Tokyo, followed by General Manager of Grand Hyatt Hong Kong. He also held regional and global operations positions before becoming Group President, Asia Pacific.
During his regional leadership, Udell helped expand the Park Hyatt brand across Asia Pacific and advance Hyatt’s luxury business.
Mark Hoplamazian, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hyatt, said: “David’s leadership has been instrumental in the tremendous growth of our Asia Pacific region and the commercial success Hyatt has achieved across its markets. His strategic vision, deep relationships with owners and commitment to our colleagues and guests have strengthened our business and helped position us for continued growth. We are profoundly grateful for his more than four decades of contributions and delighted he will continue to support our teams as Senior Advisor.”
Stephen Ho Brings More Than 40 Years of Hospitality Experience
Ho currently serves as President, Greater China & Growth, Asia Pacific. He brings more than 40 years of hospitality leadership experience to the new position.
Before joining Hyatt in 2018, he served as President, Asia Pacific, for Starwood Hotels & Resorts. He also held the position of CEO, Greater China, for Marriott International.
Since joining Hyatt, Ho has led the company’s Greater China business and supported its growth priorities across Asia Pacific.
Commenting on his appointment, Ho said: “I am honored to lead Hyatt’s Asia Pacific team, following David, who has set such a strong foundation for the region. With our great team and the momentum we’ve built, we’ll create new opportunities for our colleagues, owners, guests and communities,”
Hyatt said it will announce a successor to Ho’s current position at a later date.
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