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Accor was a standout at the 2025 HM Awards for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence, taking home three major honours at the ceremony held in Sydney on Friday, November 21.
The group was named Accommodation Chain of the Year for the fourth consecutive year, an accolade voted exclusively by the heads of hotel groups across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.
Accor’s chief operating officer for the Pacific region, Adrian Williams, was awarded the Australasian Hotelier of the Year. He says the recognition reflects the dedication of teams across the network.
“We are so honoured to receive such recognition at this year’s HM Awards. We love what we do, and it’s a true reflection of the incredible talent, dedication, and passion of everyone at Accor. Being recognised by our industry peers is hugely rewarding, and it also highlights the privilege we have in working alongside our owners and partners, whose trust and collaboration are key to our success.”
Benjamin Nesbitt, precinct general manager for Pullman, Novotel and ibis at Sydney Olympic Park, won Australian General Manager of the Year for his commercial performance, industry partnerships and people-focused leadership.
“This win reflects the power of great people, strong partnerships and a culture that puts others first,” Benjamin says.
Accor also received several category wins, including:
| Award Category | Winner / Property |
|---|---|
| Boutique Hotel | The Playford Hotel Adelaide – MGallery Collection |
| Food & Beverage Associate | Bayley McGuire, Pullman Sydney Penrith |
| Human Resources Associate | Stephanie Lopesi, Salter Brothers Hospitality Real Estate JV & Accor |
| Hotel Engineer | Keoni Toseki-Solomona, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth |
| Rising Star | Bailey Wootton, Pullman Sydney Penrith |
Accor Pacific vice president operations – Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems, David Fraser, says the results recognise the work of teams across the region.
“It is an absolute honour to see Sofitel and MGallery recognised for their outstanding achievements at the 2025 HM Awards. These accolades reflect the exceptional dedication and innovations of our teams and I couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments.”
Last month, New Zealand and South Pacific winners were announced at the HM Awards Aotearoa–Pacific gala. Accor’s regional wins included:
| Award Category | Winner / Property |
|---|---|
| New Zealand Apartment Hotel | Pullman Auckland Hotel & Apartments |
| Fijian Luxury Resort | Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa |
| Human Resources Initiative (NZ) | Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems Pacific RiiSE Committee |
| Food & Beverage Associate (NZ) | Varun Sharma, Novotel Christchurch Airport |
| Front Office Associate (NZ) | Prachie Jan Amelda Gloriani, Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport |
| Revenue Management Associate (South Pacific) | Kirshan Singh, Sofitel Fiji Beach Resort & Spa |
| Hotel Engineer (NZ) | Rebecca Dawson, Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour |
| Rising Star (co-NZ winner) | Karishma Singh, Mövenpick Hotel Auckland |
The HM Awards celebrate excellence across the hotel and accommodation sector in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.
