In Brief: Ho’s appointment takes effect January 1, 2027, following Udell’s retirement from his current role after more than four decades with Hyatt
Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced that Stephen Ho will become Group President, Asia Pacific, effective January 1, 2027. David Udell, who has led the region since 2014, will retire from his current role effective December 31, 2026, and continue with Hyatt as a Senior Advisor focused on developing future hospitality leaders and supporting the company’s luxury ambitions.
Udell joined Hyatt in Singapore in 1982 as a corporate management trainee. His career included food and beverage leadership positions across Asia, serving as the first General Manager of Park Hyatt Tokyo and later as General Manager of Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, and regional and global operations roles. As Group President, Asia Pacific, he has helped expand the Park Hyatt brand across the region and advance Hyatt’s luxury business.
“David’s leadership has been instrumental in the tremendous growth of our Asia Pacific region and the commercial success Hyatt has achieved across its markets,” said Mark Hoplamazian, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hyatt. “His strategic vision, deep relationships with owners and commitment to our colleagues and guests have strengthened our business and helped position us for continued growth. We are profoundly grateful for his more than four decades of contributions and delighted he will continue to support our teams as Senior Advisor.”
Ho brings more than 40 years of hospitality leadership experience and currently serves as President, Greater China & Growth, Asia Pacific. Before joining Hyatt in 2018, he served as President, Asia Pacific, for Starwood Hotels & Resorts and CEO, Greater China, for Marriott International. At Hyatt, he has led the Greater China business and supported the company’s growth priorities across Asia Pacific.
“I am honored to lead Hyatt’s Asia Pacific team, following David, who has set such a strong foundation for the region. With our great team and the momentum we’ve built, we’ll create new opportunities for our colleagues, owners, guests and communities,” said Ho. A successor for Ho’s current role will be announced at a later date.