IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan has appointed Kiyohito Iimuma as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Japan. In addition to his current role as Director of Operations, Japan, Iimuma will also represent ANA in the joint venture and serve as a Director of IHG ANA Hotels Holdings Co., Ltd.

With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Iimuma’s career began at ANA Hotel Tokyo, now known as ANA InterContinental Tokyo. He later transitioned into revenue management at the Tokyo Support Centre before returning to hotel operations in various General Manager roles at IHG properties across Japan.

Iimuma’s leadership abilities were further recognized when he was promoted to Area General Manager, overseeing several ANA Crowne Plaza hotels, including those in Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Kanazawa, and Toyama. Last year, he returned to the Tokyo Support Centre as Director of Operations, focusing on improving hotel support, aligning brand strategies, and strengthening owner relations.

Abhijay Sandilya, CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan and Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts Japan & Micronesia, expressed his confidence in the new appointment: “We are thrilled to see Iimuma-san take on this critical role. His extensive experience and proven track record make him the ideal candidate to lead our operations in Japan. We are confident that under his direction, IHG will continue to thrive and expand in this exciting market.”

Iimuma’s promotion reflects IHG’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing growth opportunities for employees. The group operates a variety of properties throughout Japan and has ambitious plans for further growth under his leadership.