Forte appoints worldwide chief

Forte Hotels has created the position of worldwide managing director of marketing and sales, and has appointed Peter Cardnell, regional md for the Le Meridien chain, to the post.

Cardnell will oversee the former responsibilities of sales director James Hogan who leaves at the end of March, and marketing director Suki Kalirai who left last month.

Cardnell, 44, will be responsible for central marketing co-ordination, worldwide sales operations, reservations, distribution and revenue management for chains Posthouse, Heritage, Le Meridien and London Signature Hotels. He will report directly to Forte’s chief executive Antonie Cau.

Cardnell has a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, having started his career at Forte in 1973. He has held several key positions, most recently regional managing director, Middle East and West Asia for Le Meridien Hotels and Resorts.

James Hogan, worldwide sales director, leaves Forte Hotels at the end of March to join British Midland, where he has been appointed chief operating officer.

Cau says: “Peter brings considerable experience and respect that he has gained in the field of UK and international operations.”