Stuart Nielsen has been appointed as vice president, Food and Beverage for FRHI Hotels & Resorts, Middle East, Africa and India.

Based in Dubai, Nielsen will oversee the company’s expansive F&B portfolio throughout 19 hotels in the region, and be responsible for the successful implementation of new restaurant concepts for FRHI’s growing pipeline in the Middle East, Africa and India, including the recently announced project in Nigerian capital of Abuja as well as the opening of Fairmont Riyadh, Business Gate, next year.

Sami Nasser, senior vice president, Operations for FRHI Hotels & Resorts (FRHI), Middle East, Africa and India, said: “As a renowned leader on the global culinary scene, FRHI continues to excel by offering our guests memorable culinary and dining experiences at our hotels.

“Stuart’s extensive expertise will allow for innovation and further growth within our food and beverage portfolio.”

Nielsen brings a wealth of experience to this position with over 20 years in the F&B and hospitality industry across dynamic gateway cities, including Dubai and Hong Kong. Having held director level positions within leading hospitality companies such as AccorHotels and Starwood Hotels & Resorts (Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa and Grosvenor House) in Dubai, notable career highlights include developing F&B franchised concepts for the immensely successful Buddha Bar Dubai, Maya by Richard Sandoval, and Indigo by Vineet Bhatia.