Max Simpkins has returned to Shangri-La group as Account Director, Global Sales – Groups.

In his new role, Simpkins will focus on driving groups business across the four brands Shangri-La, Kerry hotels, Traders and Jen hotels, with responsibility for the UK, Ireland & The Netherlands markets.

He will be working alongside Emma Xu, Account Manager Global Sales – Groups, based in Shangri-La’s Global Sales Office in London.

Simpkins brings more than a decade of hotel experience to the role, starting out his career at ITC Maurya in New Delhi, India and Taj Hotels in London, before his first five-year stint at Shangri-La as Sales Manager at the Shangri-La at The Shard, London hotel.

He has spent the last 18 months as Director of Sales – MICE/ Director of group sales EMEA for the Langham Hospitality group, and prior to that was Sales Director -MICE for Apex hotels, overseeing 10 MICE properties.

Simpkins is also a SITE GB board member and director of SITE Young Leaders.

“I’m thrilled to return to Shangri-La Group and rejoin the global sales team to drive growth and success across our MICE business. I’m looking forward to delivering exceptional experiences for our clients and supporting our hotels in achieving excellence in the sector and across our dynamic industry.” said Simpkins.

Daniel Reid, Assistant Vice President, Global Sales (Europe), added: “We’re delighted to welcome Max back to Shangri-La Europe Global Sales Office. His expertise and passion make him an invaluable asset to our team, and we’re excited to be working together again. With Max on board, we’re eager to execute new strategies that will not only strengthen support for our hotels in the region but also drive growth across our global portfolio.”