IHG Hotels & Resorts is doubling down on growth in its most dynamic regions. The global hospitality giant has appointed Joanna Kurowska as Vice President, Middle East & Africa Development, signaling a strategic move to place proven internal leaders in priority markets.
With nearly 15 years at IHG, Kurowska has a history of turning complex hotel portfolios into high-performing, owner-friendly ecosystems. Her leadership in the UK and Ireland — IHG’s largest market within EMEAA — oversaw more than 400 hotels, driving growth and integrating new brands like Ruby Hotels into IHG’s expanding portfolio.
In her new role, Kurowska will focus on key growth markets including Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Egypt, where she is expected to strengthen owner partnerships, accelerate development, and maintain IHG’s trajectory in one of the world’s fastest-growing hospitality regions.
Kurowska is recognized for her people-centric and inclusive leadership, reflecting her work on IHG’s Europe Inclusion and Impact Board. Her appointment underscores the company’s ongoing strategy: fostering high-performing leaders from within to navigate diverse markets while driving sustained commercial success.
For industry insiders, Kurowska’s move highlights IHG’s commitment to strategic growth and internal talent development — a signal that the brand is not just expanding in numbers, but also in leadership depth across the Middle East and Africa.
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