Former Michelin global director Michael Ellis to join Jumeirah

Former Michelin Guide global director Michael Ellis is joining Jumeirah Group as chief culinary officer.

The newly created role is part of the strategy by Jumerirah's chief executive José Silva to refresh and elevate Jumeirah's restaurant offerings, and a first step in delivering his vision to put dining as a core pillar of the hospitality group. Ellis will join the group in September.

Ellis joins from Michelin Restaurant and Hotel Guides where he was global director for Europe, Asia and the Americas. He will focus on developing new restaurant concepts, attracting and upskilling culinary talent, and enhancing existing restaurants.

Silva said: "Michael and I share a deep passion for food and dining experiences. He is a renowned epicure with 40 years' experience, and a champion of food innovators, chef talent and culinary excellence.

"His appointment is the cornerstone of the vision to put dining at the centre of Jumeirah's luxury experience… His knowledge and experience of restaurants, cuisine and chef talent is unparalleled, and as an observer of the world of dining, Michael brings to Jumeirah a depth of culinary understanding that cannot be surpassed. It is an honour to welcome Michael to lead the culinary team."

Ellis added: "José has a bold and exciting vision to energise the hospitality industry. The kitchen is where revolutions happen and as a creative culinary thinker I am delighted to have an opportunity to test my own, and the team's, drive for culinary innovation.

"I have dedicated much of my life to the culinary experience and as José takes Jumeirah's hotels into the next phase of dynamic growth, I am looking forward to bringing my passion for great food and dining to Jumeirah's guests."

A member of Dubai Holding, Jumeirah Group operates 19 Jumeirah-branded hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, including the flagship Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in Dubai. In the UK, the group operates the Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel and Grosvenor House Suites in London.

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