Ace Group International, which operates the lifestyle hotel brand Ace Hotel, has named Chris Penn as CEO.

The company has also announced new executive positions to boost the leadership team and advance accelerated growth as it focuses on global expansion.

Other appointments include Mostafa Abdella as chief operating officer (COO) and Meriem Soliman as chief brand officer.

Penn, whose hospitality career spans 25 years, has operated independent hotels across a range of markets, particularly in the lifestyle sector. He also previously held the position of Ace Hotel London managing director.

As CEO, he will manage all aspects of the business and focus on driving growth and commercial success across the portfolio.

In the role of COO, Abdella will oversee finance, revenue, operations, food and beverage, IT, and HR, focusing on offering high guest experiences and increasing profitability.

Soliman initially joined Ace in 2012 in the role of general counsel, gaining an understanding of every element of the business. In 2021, she took on the role of president.

Ace Group International / Atelier Ace managing partner Brad Wilson says: "Chris and Mostafa are both seasoned, highly regarded operators with global experience and an intimate understanding of the Ace brand.

“Their long history of successful partnership will be a major advantage as we continue to seek development opportunities both domestically and internationally. I look forward to combining our expertise and working hand-in-hand to deliver growth and commercial success to our development partners."