By the Caribbean Journal staff

Hilton has appointed a new head of its Caribbean and Latin America operations, Caribbean Journal has learned.

The company has appointed Jorge Giannattasio to the role, in which he will oversee a region where Hilton currently operates a portfolio of more than 130 hotels.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jorge, who has an impressive track record of working with organizations to maximize growth, customer satisfaction and profitability,” said Joe Berger, executive vice president & president, Americas, Hilton said in a statement.  “As we continue our aggressive Caribbean and Latin America expansion with more than 80 hotels in the pipeline, Jorge’s proven operational and financial experience make him uniquely qualified for this role and will help us achieve long-term success for our hotels and resorts across the region.”

Giannattasio comes to the company after having served most recently as chief operating officer at SBE Entertainment Group, the company in which AccorHotels just announced plans to purchase a 50 percent stake.

“I am thrilled to join Hilton at such an exciting time for the company, and contribute to our success in the Caribbean and Latin America,” said Giannattasio. “This part of the world is experiencing phenomenal growth and I look forward to working with our teams across the region to further our mission to be the world’s most hospitable company.”