Canyon Makare Ltd., owner of the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji, announced the appointment of Bart Simpson as the resort’s new general manager. Simpson, who has worked with Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort for the past six years, previously held the position of resort operations manager. His tenure with the resort, along with 25 years of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, make Simpson ideally suited to take the helm of one of the most prominent vacation destinations in the South Pacific, acclaimed for its spectacular ecological exploration, understated luxury and warm hospitality in the traditional Fijian style. In his new role, Simpson will continue to focus on providing an unparalleled guest experience and further developing the sustainability practices for which the resort is known.
“We are delighted to promote Bart Simpson to the position of general manager at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort,” said Homi Vazifdar, director of Canyon Makare Ltd. “His experience with the resort, coupled with his impressive background within the food, wine and hospitality industries, give us every confidence in his ability to uphold all that Jean-Michel Resort stands for and to provide the leadership to take us to even greater levels of guest services and environmental commitment.”
Prior to working with Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Simpson held positions in the fine wine industry, representing a portfolio of brands that included Louis Roederer, and was the brand manager for Mitchell Wines in Clare Valley, Australia. He also spent many years working as a manager and sommelier in some of the top restaurants in Sydney, Melbourne and Noosa, Australia. He began his hospitality career working for hotels, including the InterContinental, Hyatt and the One&Only Hayman Island resort. He completed his hotel school training at Ryde Hospitality College in Sydney in 1989.
“I am excited and honored to be entrusted with this wonderful opportunity,” said Simpson. “My six years here have been an extraordinary experience. I look forward to exploring new and exciting ways to continue our support of the unique Fijian ecosystem while providing each of our guests with the memorable and personalized experience that has been the resort’s hallmark.”
In addition to his duties with the resort, Simpson is also the director of the Savusavu Community Foundation, responsible for many philanthropic projects on the island of Vanua Levu, Fiji.
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, www.fijiresort.com