Accor, Australia’s largest hotel operator with a network of over 380 hotels and apartments, has appointed Claire Haigh as its new Director of Communications for the Pacific region.

For the past five years Haigh was Global Communications Director for Pernod Ricard’s Winemaking division and their portfolio of champagnes, spirits and wines in Australia and New Zealand.

Between 2008 and 2013 Haigh was Head of Communications for Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants in the UK, and prior to that drove creative communications, strategic brand partnerships and external affairs for AB InBev, Coca-Cola and Oakley.

In her new role, Haigh will lead communications for Accor Pacific’s award-winning apartment, hotel and resorts portfolio which includes Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, Novotel, Mercure, Mantra, Peppers, Art Series, Swissotel and ibis, and premium membership platform Accor Vacation Club, across Australia, New Zealand, French Polynesia and Fiji. 

Haigh will also direct communications for Accor’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, and the group’s newly launched global lifestyle loyalty programme, Accor Live Limitless www.all.accor.com, where members enjoy access to the brand's whole suite of hotels, spas, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, as well as “money can't buy” entertainment, wellness and sport experiences.   

Haigh commented, “There has never been a better time to join Accor and it is a fantastic feeling to come into a thriving and dynamic business.

“Accor are leading the future of tourism and hospitality, they have a phenomenal portfolio, and they are playing an active role in giving back to the planet and community via its Planet 21 programme, the Accor Community Fund, and Inclusion and Diversity initiatives.

“I look forward to collaborating with the teams across the business to deliver outstanding work, and I will be focused on growing brand value and visibility to support growth."

"Claire’s passion and expertise for how communications can drive business results and fit within an integrated proposition made her the ideal appointment," said Simon McGrath, Chief Operating Officer for Accor Pacific. 

Accor is a major sponsor of the Australian Open and the official accommodation partner of the NRL.

ABOUT ACCOR

Accor is a world-leading augmented hospitality group offering unique experiences in more than 5000 hotels and residences across 110 destinations. The Group has been acquiring hospitality expertise for more than 50 years, resulting in an unrivalled portfolio of 39 hotel brands, from luxury to economy, supported by one of the most attractive loyalty programs in the world.

ALL, Accor Live Limitless is a daily lifestyle companion that integrates rewards, services and experiences bringing value to everyday life inventing a completely new aspirational way to live limitless.