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Kathleen Hedges Appointed General Manager of Hampton by Hilton’s First African Property

Sandton, South Africa – 26 November 2024 – Kathleen Hedges has been named General Manager of the soon-to-open Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston, which will mark Hampton by Hilton’s debut in Africa. Scheduled to open in December, the 158-room hotel will bring the brand’s thoughtful and reliable service to Johannesburg. 

With 17 years of hospitality experience working across various frontline and senior leadership roles, Kathleen will lead the introduction of Hampton by Hilton’s signature ‘Hamptonality’ experience to the African continent. At Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston, she aims to deliver the authentic and friendly service the brand is known for, fostering a culture of teamwork and innovation. 

Commenting on her appointment, Andreas Lackner, vice president, operations, Africa & Indian Ocean, Hilton said: “We are thrilled to have Kathleen lead this highly anticipated opening. With almost two decades of hospitality experience, I am confident Kathleen will do an outstanding job of providing guests a friendly and reliable stay experience rooted in South African hospitality and cultivating a positive workplace for team members.”

Kathleen Hedges, general manager, Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston, added: “I am excited to join the team and bring Hampton by Hilton’s trusted, award-winning service to Africa. Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston will play a key role in supporting local tourism and attracting both domestic and international travellers. My focus will be to showcase the brand’s unique identity through thoughtful stays while staying true to the country’s authentic culture and traditions.”

The hotel will feature Hampton by Hilton’s beloved amenities, including complimentary hot breakfasts with freshly baked waffles, free Wi-Fi, and modern fitness facilities. Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston will be part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s world-class brands comprising more than 8,300 properties in 138 countries and territories. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app, where members can check in, choose, and access their room using Digital Key. 

For more information or to make reservations, please visit Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston or call +27 800 780018.

Read more about Hampton by Hilton at stories.hilton.com.  

ENDS –

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