Minor Hotels Announces Russell Cool as Director of Operations & Franchising

Minor Hotels Australasia is delighted to announce the appointment of Russell Cool as Director of Operations for its diverse portfolio of properties, overseeing commercial performance, strategic plan implementation, franchise growth, new property onboarding and more.  

This is an expanded role for Russell who is also Minor Hotels Australasia’s Director of Franchising. Russell has an extensive and impressive track record in the Australian hospitality industry, including prior senior roles with Minor Hotels, Langham Hotels and Onyx Hospitality.

"We are thrilled to have Russell’s in-depth industry knowhow and strategic insights in this newly created role at such a critical time for our expanding portfolio. An exceptional leader who ensures the guest experience is at the heart of everything we do, Russell will bring expertise in stakeholder management, innovation, mentoring and operational excellence to the role, and I look forward to working alongside him to deliver for our guests, our owners and our Minor Hotels team,” said Craig Hooley, Chief Operating Officer of Minor Hotels Australasia.

Commenting on his appointment, Russell Cool said: “I am fortunate to work with a talented team who share my passion and I am excited to support Minor Hotels’ global target of operating 850 hotels by 2027. Franchise development will be a key piece of the puzzle to achieve that growth, as well as strategic property acquisitions in sought-after locations, such as our first Oaks property in Auckland, the newly opened Oaks Auckland Hotel and Oaks Lake Crackenback Resort in the scenic Snowy Mountains.”

“I will also be spearheading the transition of Oaks Hotels Resorts and Suites into a full-service offering, including the considered rollout of Oaks’ new brand hallmarks and lifestyle-led guest experiences, such as curated grab-and-go pantries, on-site cafes with barista-made coffee and flexible co-working lobby spaces Designed to drive loyalty and create a strong point of difference in the competitive Australasian market, the implementation of these experiences marks a pivotal time in the evolution of the Oaks brand, and I cannot wait to bring it to life over the coming months, and beyond.”