Mandarin Oriental has appointed Joanna Flint as its first chief commercial officer.
The former managing director for global partner business for Google started in the newly-created role on April 1.
She will oversee the development of the group’s commercial strategy and take executive responsibility for all aspects of Mandarin Oriental’s customer experience.
Flint will take over the responsibilities of chief marketing officer, Jill Kluge, who will retire from the company in September while retaining a brand advisor role.
Prior to joining Mandarin Oriental, Flint spent 12 years at Google in general management and sales leadership roles, most recently as managing director for global partner business with responsibility for industry go-to-market and commercialisation for Google’s media and technology partners in Asia Pacific.
Flint has also held senior roles at Ogilvy Asia Pacific, Singapore Airlines and British Airways.
Group chief executive James Riley said: “We are delighted to welcome Joanna to Mandarin Oriental. Her global leadership skills, digital expertise and understanding of customer behaviour will strengthen our ability to innovate and enhance our position as a leader in the luxury market.
“I would also like to thank Jill for an incredible 30 years of service. She has been instrumental in the growth and global awareness of our brand, particularly in devising our ‘Fan’ campaigns. I am delighted that she will continue with the group as brand advisor.”
Flint added: “It is a privilege to join Mandarin Oriental at such an important time; a brand I’ve always admired for service excellence and luxury. This opportunity is boundless, and I’m excited to return to the travel industry to work with our colleagues and partners around the world to shape the Group’s future for our customers”.