Wyndham adds key development leaders in the Middle East and Africa

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the largest hotel franchising company, with approximately 9,200 hotels across over 95 countries, announced the expansion of its Middle East and Africa (MEA) development team. This strategic move underscores Wyndham’s dedication to enhancing its presence and fostering growth across these dynamic regions, marking the largest team to date dedicated to development in the MEA region.

Charl Nel and Jean-Claude Abi Khalil have been appointed as Development Managers for the Middle East & Africa, based in Wyndham’s regional headquarters in Dubai, UAE. Their extensive experience and skill set in hospitality positions will help in the growth and strengthening of connections.  

Nel brings a wealth of knowledge from previous industry roles in development with over 15 years of experience in hospitality and real estate across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Having held previous roles in companies like Hilton, Radisson Hotel Group, and TUI Group, he was responsible for hotel growth through management and franchise agreements across various regions. His focus areas will include Southern, Eastern and Central Africa, in addition to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, leveraging his deep understanding of these markets.

Khalil has a background in hotel operations, sales and asset management. With over 24 years of experience in hospitality, he has a proven track record of transforming operations and leading strategic rebranding initiatives to enhance market positioning and guest experience. His focus will include Western and Northern Africa, in addition to the GCC region, where his operational experience will be invaluable.

"Having Charl and Jean-Claude join our team brings vital expertise and regional insights that will strengthen our development efforts and help us achieve our strategic growth objectives in the Middle East and Africa. These vibrant markets offer immense potential, and building on our dedicated and skilled team contributes to our growth opportunity in the region,” commented, Govind Mundra, Head of Development for Middle East and Africa.

Nel and Khalil will report to the Head of Development for MEA, Mundra, who took his position in the region last year following extensive experience in hospitality development with Wyndham and other leisure brands. The expanded team will focus on key markets in the GCC, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as well as targeted regions in Africa such as Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, Ghana, South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya and Ethiopia.