Industry renowned and award-winning hotelier Shannon Craig has been appointed the new general manager of Rydges Wellington bringing a fresh focus and years of experience within the EVT stable of hotel brands.
Returning to New Zealand after two decades living and working in Australia and the United Kingdom, Shannon decided the time was right to return and bring her international skills and passion for people to Rydges Wellington.
“We had discussed for a long time if the right opportunity presented itself in New Zealand that we could consider it. Slightly triggered by the lack of accessibility during the pandemic, when the role at Rydges Wellington became available I knew I could come home and make a positive mark on a beloved hotel in the Capital,” says Shannon.
Her most recent role as general manager at Atura Adelaide Airport culminated in the property being awarded EVT Mid-Size Hotel of the Year in 2022. At the same time, as area general manager for South Australia and Tasmania she oversaw a total of four general managers across six EVT properties, assisting them both operationally and in delivering opening, branding, design, budgetary and sales and marketing plans.
Prior to that, Shannon spent three years as general manager of QT Canberra, during which time she was named Australian Hotel Association ACT – Member of the Year in 2021 and was a finalist for the HM Awards 2021 Australian GM of the Year.
“I have done two stints in Canberra and there is something about Capital cities that makes me feel like I’m in the thick of the action, which I enjoy. Wellington city has the same buzz about it and it means our team at iconic Rydges Wellington welcome guests from all walks of life, which gives me great energy,” she says.
A supporter of females in business, Shannon was the VP of Canberra Women in Business and a board member of AHA Canberra during her tenure at QT Canberra. As a market leader, she is excited by the changes in the industry over the last two decades and believes the best is yet to come.
“I have worked in hotels for 25 years and I still love the industry.
“I have the luxury of remaining in a company that celebrates the individual meaning whenever I move to a new hotel it quickly feels like home.”
Rydges Wellington reopened its doors in February to welcome guests and locals alike after refurbishment.
“The hotel is looking great and the feedback from guests is positive. My team provide genuine local hospitality, and we are focused on our community building and strengthening relationships internally and with every guest who walks through our doors,” says Shannon.
General manager operations New Zealand – EVT Hotels & Resorts, Simon White, says Shannon brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record in Australia to her new role on this side of the Tasman:
“We are delighted to have lured Shannon back to Wellington as she is a highly regarded and extremely accomplished addition to our New Zealand operations.”
In addition to the Wellington role, Shannon will also take on the role of area general manager for Rydges Rotorua and Arawa Park Hotel Rotorua.
