Seasoned hospitality leader brings experiential luxury expertise and F&B pedigree to Sri Lanka’s premier beachfront retreat
Minor Hotels has appointed Erik Billgren as General Manager of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, effective September 2024. He takes the reins at one of Sri Lanka’s most sought-after coastal retreats, bringing with him a wealth of expertise in experiential luxury hospitality following roles at several of Minor Hotels' key properties in Asia.
Billgren began his journey with Minor Hotels in 2021, drawing on more than a decade of experience in Vietnam to quickly establish himself as a dynamic and forward-thinking leader as General Manager of Anantara Mui Ne Resort. He was soon promoted to Complex General Manager for Anantara and Avani Quy Nhon Resorts, where he also oversaw operations for The Vietage by Anantara, one of Asia’s leading luxury railway experiences.
"I am thrilled to take on the role of General Manager at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, a destination that truly embodies the spirit of Sri Lanka," Billgren said. "From its breathtaking coastal location to the deep cultural heritage that touches every part of the guest experience, this resort offers a unique combination of natural beauty and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality."
In his new role at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle, Billgren brings his expertise and passion for luxury hospitality to lead the resort in delivering the highest standards of service and luxury to its guests. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the resort, known for its breathtaking beachfront location, world-class spa and wellbeing facilities, and authentic Sri Lankan cultural experiences.
"Sri Lanka is rapidly emerging as a sought-after global destination, and Anantara Tangalle stands out as a beacon of environmentally and culturally immersive experiences," said Puneet Dhawan, Head of Asia at Minor Hotels. "With Erik Billgren's proven leadership and commitment to excellence, I am confident the resort will continue to elevate its standing as one of Sri Lanka's premier luxury destinations, attracting discerning travellers from around the world."
Nestled on Sri Lanka's rugged southern coast, Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort features 152 rooms and villas, spread across a 22-acre estate that has been transformed into a thriving wildlife corridor. Under Billgren’s leadership, the resort is poised to continue its legacy as a top-tier destination for discerning travellers seeking an exquisite blend of serenity, luxury, and cultural immersion.
Billgren holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree, with a Hospitality & Tourism major, from Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School in Australia.
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort is a five-star luxury resort on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, set within a 21-acre coconut plantation and along a secluded beach. The resort features 120 guest rooms and 32 private pool villas, blending modern comforts with natural coastal surroundings. Guests enjoy unique dining options, multi-award-winning Ayurvedic wellness treatments, and easy access to nearby cultural and natural attractions. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle offers a serene retreat, combining local experiences with a tranquil, coastal setting.
A luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, Anantara has connected guests to genuine places, people and stories in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations since 2001. Each Anantara embraces the surroundings and culture of its destination to create unforgettable memories for every guest. From city to sea and desert to jungle, Anantara delivers heartfelt, Thai-inspired hospitality at its over 50 hotels and resorts across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean.
Anantara is part of global hospitality group Minor Hotels and a member of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.
Visit anantara.com for more information, and connect with Anantara on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
About Minor Hotels
Minor Hotels is a global leader in the hospitality industry with over 560 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 58 countries. The group crafts innovative and insightful experiences through its eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli – and a diverse portfolio of restaurants and bars, travel experiences and spa and wellness brands. With over four decades of expertise, Minor Hotels builds stronger brands, fosters lasting partnerships, and drives business success by always focusing on what matters most to our guests, team members and partners.
Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and recognises its guests through one unified loyalty programme, Minor DISCOVERY, part of GHA DISCOVERY.
Discover our world at minorhotels.com and connect with Minor Hotels on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
Contact details
-
- Deshanee Wijayasinghe
- Cluster Marketing Communications Manager, Minor Hotels Sri Lanka
- dwijayasinghe@minor.com
Related topics
Related news
Avani+ Fujairah Resort Set to Join Minor Hotels’ Growing United Arab Emirates Portfolio
Avani+ Fujairah Resort to join Minor Hotels' UAE portfolio in 2028, marking Avani's debut in Fujairah with stunning beachfront and unique leisure experiences.
Minor Hotels Appoints Shobhit Khattri as Associate Vice President of Development for India, Nepal and Bangladesh
In his new role, Khattri is responsible for identifying new development opportunities and driving the expansion of Minor Hotels' brands in India, Nepal and Bangladesh.
Minor Hotels Announces the First Avani Branded Resort to be Built in India
Avani+ Sunray Beach Resort set to redefine hospitality in Visakhapatnam with contemporary accommodations, modern dining and a nine-hole golf course, opening by 2028.
Anantara Ubud Bali Resort Named in Travel + Leisure Magazine’s 100 Best New Hotels in the World for 2025
Anantara Ubud Bali Resort is honored in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 It List, celebrated for its serene jungle setting and authentic island experiences.
Update Regarding Recent Earthquake Affecting Thailand
Bangkok returns to normal following the earthquake that affected the city on Friday, 28 March.