Ovolo Hotels group director of marketing to depart after 7 years

Hong Kong-based Ovolo Hotels' group director of marketing Stephen Howard (pictured) will depart at the beginning of April to refocus on family and health, as confirmed to MARKETING-INTERACTIVE. 

Howard joined Ovolo Hotels in 2018, where he contributed to the company’s global expansion, implementing effective marketing communication strategies and a rebrand.

"When I joined Ovolo, I was drawn to its bold, disruptive spirit, a challenger hotel brand that didn’t just follow trends but set them. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most creative and passionate colleagues in the industry, helping to shape Ovolo’s brand, launch groundbreaking campaigns, and steer the business through some of the toughest challenges, including a global pandemic," he said on his LinkedIn.

"Together, we navigated change, pushed boundaries, and created experiences that made an impact. From launching new properties and entering new international markets to rebranding under the philosophy of ‘Wonder. Full.’, Ovolo has never been just a workplace for me; it’s been a home for ideas, innovation, and incredible people."

"Some might say it’s the ‘seven-year itch’, but my decision to step away is a personal one, rooted in the need to focus on family, health, and the next chapter of my journey. While it’s never easy to say goodbye, I do so with immense pride and gratitude for everything we’ve built together. To Girish Jhunjhnuwala, the leadership team, my incredible colleagues, and everyone who has been part of this ride, thank you," he added.

He also expressed his gratitude to his marketing and communications team, "it’s been an honour to work by your side. Your creativity, support, and shared passion for delivering exceptional marketing communications strategies and initiatives, bound by the philosophies of our F.A.M.E. brand pillars, emotional connection, and effortless living, have made this journey one I will always cherish." 

"This is not a farewell, but a 'see you later'. I’ll be cheering Ovolo on from the sidelines."

Prior to Ovolo, he was with Australian hospitality company Event Hospitality & Entertainment as group PR director, where he launched QT Hotels & Resorts across Australian and international markets whilst also overseeing the corporate communications and PR for their other brands such as Events Cinemas and Rydges Hotels. In 2008, he joined Hyundai Motor Company to lead a complete brand evolution, launching new vehicles and implementing innovative PR strategies.

Don't miss: Ovolo Hotels concludes global digital marketing pitch

Most recently, Ovolo Hotels handed its global digital marketing remit to Hong Kong agency Nodal, a rising star in the marketing world known for its AI-powered digital solutions. The appointment follows a pitch in November 2024, which included contenders from the US, Indonesia and Australia.

This collaboration aims to harness the power of artificial intelligence to elevate Ovolo's marketing efforts, driving exceptional, performance-driven results. 

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