Emaar Hospitality Group has appointed former Armani Hotel boss Mark Kirby as the area general manager of four premium luxury hotels under Address Hotels + Resorts.

Kirby will drive all aspects of the hotel operations of Address Downtown and will oversee Palace Downtown as well as the soon to open Address Fountain Views and Address Sky View, according to a statement from the hospitality and leisure business of Emaar Properties.

He is also mandated with strengthening the iconic flagship hotel, Address Downtown’s brand distinctiveness and directing operations, marketing, sales and administrative functions of the hotels, it added.

Previously, Kirby was the general manager of Armani Hotel Dubai for the last four years.

Olivier Harnisch, CEO of Emaar Hospitality Group, said: “Mark Kirby brings homegrown hospitality expertise and strong insights on the market trends that will add value to the four Address hotels. His passion and extensive knowledge will be invaluable in setting new standards for excellence, innovation, and extraordinary guest service at the hotels.”

Kirby said: “Our focus will be to continue underlining the positioning of the existing and upcoming hotels under Address Hotels + Resorts… Whether for business or leisure, we are committed to delivering gracious hospitality and exceptional service standards in a premium lifestyle environment.”