A ski trip to Queenstown 13 years ago led to Stewart Manson’s start in the New Zealand hospitality industry at Crowne Plaza Queenstown.
And from early next month it will be a case of déjà vu for the now experienced hotelier as he returns to the property as general manager.
Scottish-born Stewart, 37, was Crowne Plaza Queenstown’s front office supervisor from May 2006, a diverse position that saw him covering everything from night audit and concierge to reservations and duty manager roles.
He’d come to New Zealand to go travelling after spending nine years in the industry in Scotland, then got the job because he’d found somewhere he wanted to stay.
He moved to Sydney in 2011 before becoming hotel manager at Crowne Plaza Port Moresby from 2013 to 2017. Most recently he’s been general manager at Lasseters Alice Springs, home to the 205-room Crowne Alice Springs, a convention centre for up to 1200 delegates and six food and beverage venues.
“I feel like I’ve come full circle with the move back to Queenstown and I can’t wait,” he says.
“I loved my time in the resort and I’ve only been back twice to play golf on its amazing courses.
“I’m most looking forward to re-connecting with the property and some staff who are still there all these years later, enjoying outdoor activities such as trail running in the mountains, and going skiing and snowboarding with my family,” he says.
“I love Queenstown as a year-round tourist destination, it’s just one of those special places that draws you back.”
Stewart’s leadership style and experience is welcomed by IHG’s area general manager – New Zealand Tim Pollock.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming Stewart back to New Zealand and know that his wealth of experiences will add exceptional value to Crowne Plaza Queenstown,” Tim says.
“Having worked with Stewart in Papua New Guinea I know he’ll be an excellent addition to the property.
“We wish him every success in his role.”
