Thursday, 12th September 2024 (Suva, Fiji): Suva’s only 5-star luxury hotel, the iconic Grand Pacific Hotel, is thrilled to announce the appointments of Kanokwan Imprasittichai as Executive Chef and Taione Masuwale as Director of Food & Beverage. These strategic appointments highlight the hotel’s commitment to providing unparalleled luxury and exceptional culinary experiences.
Kanokwan Imprasittichai, originally from Thailand, brings an illustrious career spanning 13 years. She has held prestigious positions at renowned establishments worldwide, including the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok and the Bistro by Wolfgang Puck in Sydney. With a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and specialized training in Traditional Thai Cooking and Asian Cookery, Kanokwan is poised to elevate the Grand Pacific Hotel’s dining experiences.
Kanokwan will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s culinary operations and lead a team of talented chefs, ensuring the highest food quality and presentation standards. Her focus will be on modern Asian and traditional cuisine, bringing a fresh and innovative perspective to creating flavorful dishes.
Taione Masuwale, hailing from Fiji, joins the Grand Pacific Hotel as Director of Food & Beverage, bringing a wealth of experience from his recent role as Central Support Manager at Sourdough South Ltd in Hampshire, UK. With over 18 years in the food and beverage industry, Taione has worked with several prominent UK high-street venues, including All Bar One, Turtle Bay, and Cóte Brasserie both in London and along the South Coast. He has also successfully implemented procurement systems and developed new seasonal and locally sourced menus.
Taione will be responsible for the overall management of the Food and Beverage department, focusing on enhancing service quality and guest satisfaction. His strategic approach will integrate innovative practices to enhancing the dining experience at the Grand Pacific Hotel continually.
“At Grand Pacific Hotel, we believe in going beyond the backdrop, ensuring every detail reflects your unique style. Whether it’s the clink of glasses, bubbles of laughter, or the world-renowned Fijian hospitality, we elevate moments into something truly extraordinary, creating memories that last a lifetime,” commented Lachlan Walker, Portfolio General Manager – IHG Hotels & Resorts, FNPF Owned Hotels. “With Kanokwan’s incredible culinary talent and visionary leadership, and Taione’s expertise in food and beverage operations, we are confident they will deliver an exceptional dining experience that personifies our commitment to excellence. Moreover, their dedication to growing and grooming local talent ensures our teams are trained in the skills of excellence, delivering incredible experiences and occasions that reflect the heart and soul of Fijian hospitality.”
Under Kanokwan’s leadership, guests at the Grand Pacific Hotel can look forward to a refined gastronomic experience with exquisite menus that showcase local and international flavours. The commitment to using the freshest local ingredients will support local farmers and ensure the authenticity and sustainability of the hotel’s cuisine. Kanokwan’s influence will be felt in every dish served at the Grand Pacific Hotel, whether it’s an intimate dinner, a grand celebration, or a casual meal. Her commitment to excellence and ability to infuse creativity and authenticity into cuisine will ensure that guests leave with unforgettable memories of their time at the hotel.
Kanokwan is excited to join the Grand Pacific Hotel, aiming to bring her culinary expertise to life in a setting that celebrates Fiji’s rich flavours. Her focus will be on crafting extraordinary dining experiences and fostering the development of the talented local team. She envisions a collaborative effort where innovation and creativity lead to dishes that are delicious and unforgettable, setting new standards in culinary excellence.
Similarly, Taione Masuwale is enthusiastic about his new role at the Grand Pacific Hotel, where he plans to uphold and elevate the exceptional standards of service and quality that guests expect. With his extensive experience in food and beverage operations, Taione is committed to integrating innovative practices to continually improve the dining experience, ensuring that every guest enjoys memorable and high-quality service.
ENDS
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Media Contact
[Krishnil Prasad, +679 673 3300 +679 998 2641]
[Krishnil.Prasad@ihg.com]
Notes to Editors
About Grand Pacific Hotel.
Experience the ultimate in luxury at the Grand Pacific Hotel, a 5-star heritage property located on Suva Waterfront. With 113 beautiful rooms & suites, newly-built meeting and event spaces, elevated restaurant & bars, and warm Fijian hospitality, it’s the perfect destination for discerning travellers. Immerse yourself in the history and charm of Fiji and its heritage while enjoying panoramic views and modern amenities. Discover the magic of the Grand Pacific Hotel.
The Grand Pacific Hotel has been an icon of the South Pacific for over a century. The Hotel reopened in May 2014 on the hundredth anniversary of its original opening and has already regained its place as the “grand old lady” of the Pacific – a wonderful blend of fascinating colonial architecture and history combined with magnificent Fijian hospitality and friendliness. Grand Pacific Hotel is owned by the Fiji National Provident Fund. FNPF-owned IHG Fiji Hotels portfolio include InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Grand Pacific Hotel and Holiday Inn Suva.
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