The Ascott Limited (Ascott), one of the leading international lodging owner-operators, has appointed Maximilian (Max) Rauch as the new Head of Food and Beverage (F&B) for Middle East, Africa and Turkiye (MEAT).

With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Rauch will spearhead Ascott’s appetite to amplify its F&B offerings for owners and guests, providing tailored solutions to each of its 13 operational properties in the region that currently house over 16 F&B outlets.

In his new role, Rauch will extend his expertise to Ascott’s portfolio of owners and restaurant operators across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Turkiye and Kenya, creating dedicated training programmes, implementing customised service solutions, and bolstering industry specific partnerships to strengthen the group’s F&B offerings.

With his extensive background in culinary management and a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences, Rauch will play a pivotal role in elevating Ascott's F&B offerings to new heights, said a statement from Ascott.

Vincent Miccolis, Managing Director for Middle East, Africa, Türkiye and India at The Ascott Limited, said Rauch’s expertise and proven track record in the industry make him an invaluable asset to the Ascott team.

“With his strong leadership skills and passion for culinary excellence, we are confident that he will contribute significantly to enhancing our F&B offerings and creating memorable dining experiences for our guests,” he said.

The F&B leader has held key positions across the hospitality and corporate sectors. During his tenure as Restaurant Manager at Madinat Jumeirah Al Qasr, Rauch was responsible for launching iconic events such as ‘Feria de Abril,’ Flamenco, and ‘Spanish Nights.’

From executing themed brunches and nights, to improving service standards, he implemented innovative strategies to elevate the F&B quality, increase restaurant capacity, and optimise Madinat Jumeirah Al Qasr’s RevPash, said the statement.

Furthermore, as Head of Operations for The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management, Jumeirah Group, Rauch managed extensive multi-department operations across 434-keys, and pioneered creative growth strategies resulting in revenue increase, optimisation of underutilised spaces, improving the quality of service for operating cafés, the statement further said.

Rauch said: "I am honoured to be part of The Ascott Limited and have the opportunity to lead the F&B operations in the region. I look forward to working closely with the talented teams across Ascott's properties to deliver remarkable dining experiences and create a lasting culinary impression on our guests." - TradeArabia News Service