Philippe Caretti has joined Kempinski Hotels as VP Operations China effective October 1st, 2008 and will report to René Schmitt, President China.

In view of the opportunities in China, Kempinski is one of the many hotel companies who are jumping the bandwagon and will be launching a new concept called Nuo. Caretti will be responsible for the operational hotels as well as development of the new brand.

Prior to joining Kempinski, Caretti has been working for several international hotel groups, including: Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, Hotel Mulia in Indonesia and Wynn Las Vegas. His last assignment was a small stint with Hotel Mulia again in a corporate role.

To date, Kempinski has 12 hotels in operation and another 10 hotels signed. The China JV with Key International Hotels Management Company (KEY) will be used to manage the launch and operations of Nuo in China.