Hilton brings in new VP for Africa, Indian Ocean

Hilton Worldwide has announced Johannes Van Der Putten has become its new vice president for Africa and the Indian Ocean.

Based in Johannesburg, Van Der Putten will help the company increase its presence across the region. He will also be responsible for business operations of the Hilton Sandton.

With over 25 years' experience in operations with Hilton, from Sweden and Denmark to Malta and Malaysia, he also spent two years as general manager at Hilton Addis Ababa in 1992.

Rudi Jagersbacher, president, Middle East and Africa said: “This is a key appointment for the company and I’m delighted that someone of Johannes’ talent and background will head such an important region for the company. Hilton Worldwide enjoys a proud pioneering reputation in Africa and Johannes’ experience will be vital as we continue to set industry standards in quality, service and in developing new opportunities.”

Van Der Putten added: “I’m thrilled at the prospect of joining Hilton Worldwide MEA at a time of continued growth and as the company seeks to build on its successful position as Africa’s pre-eminent hospitality provider. We have opened a number of hotels in Africa and Indian Ocean in the past two years and I’m looking forward to continuing that pace of progress with further openings and signings planned across several new markets in the future.”

He graduated from Lausanne Hotel & Hospitality Institute and has acted as an advisor on the International Hospitality Advisory Board. Van Der Putten joins the company’s MEA senior team from his previous role as area general manager Benelux with responsibility for nine hotels.