By Darren Edmonstone and Una Murray

I am pleased to join Human Resources in announcing the appointment of Darren Shaw as General Manager of Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas in Thailand.

In his new position, effective February 1, 2010, Darren will be responsible for overseeing all operational matters at Phuket’s newest luxury villa property — the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas — which opened 1 December 2009.

Prior to his transfer to Thailand, Darren was General Manager of the most-awarded five-star luxury resort in Fiji, the Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji (FOR). During his three years at the FOR, the resort won many awards, including: 2009 Travelers’ Choice Awards – Best for Families in the South Pacific; the 2009 World’s Top 1% Hotels, awarded by Expedia Insider Select List; and Best Service Hotel in Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific, in the Hotel Club Awards 2008.

The FOR’s Food & Beverage staff also claimed numerous international culinary awards under Darren’s leadership, and the hotel was also recognized with a prestigious Green Star accreditation by AAA Tourism. On a personal note, HM Magazine in Sydney awarded Darren the title of South Pacific Manager of the Year in 2008.

We are pleased to have Darren join our management team in Phuket. He’s an excellent leader with a proven background in exceeding expectations and providing the very best in hospitality. We look forward to Darren playing a key role in establishing the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas as one of the most unique and desirable villa resorts in Asia.

A farewell ceremony was held for Darren and his family by staff and management of The Outrigger On the Lagoon – Fiji.

A traditional ceremony was performed by the Activities department, and Darren and his family were presented with a tabua (a whale’s tooth, an important cultural item in Fijian Society), as a parting gift. Leon Pink, the Resort Manager, highlighted the many great things Darren has done for the resort.

Darren thanked the staff for everything they have done for him and his family during his years in Fiji.