Karisma is looking to make a major expansion in South America.

The company has appointed Juan Pablo Franky as its new chief executive officer for the region, a role in which he will spearhead the expansion of Karisma’s brands.

“We are extremely pleased that Juan Pablo is joining our accomplished team, taking on a pivotal leadership role towards bolstering our presence in South America,” said Neil Evans, Chief Operating Officer of Karisma Hotels & Resorts. “Karisma has experienced rapid global growth over the past few years and we are eager to continue this trajectory with a focus on bringing our world-class brands to Latin America. With Juan Pablo at the helm and a new office in Bogotá, we are confident South America will be an increasingly significant market for Karisma’s new and existing luxury properties around the world.”

Franky will concentrate on commercial development in Latin America for Karisma’s brands, which include El Dorado Spa Resorts, Azul Beach Resorts, Generations Resorts, Karisma Villas, Allure Hotels, Hidden Beach Resort, Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts, Karisma Hotels Adriatic and Margaritaville, many of which already operate in the Caribbean region.

“I am very excited to join Karisma Hotels & Resorts and help the company to achieve its goal of increasing its hotel portfolio by 35 percent by 2020,” Franky said. “I look forward to bringing Karisma’s elevated standard of luxury to Latin America while further educating agents, operators and leisure travelers on its Gourmet Inclusive Experience, esteemed partnerships and the innovative services and amenities found at each of its world-class properties.”

Franky had most recently served as vice president of development and investment for Decameron Hotels.