The Star Sydney has appointed two general managers to its leadership team, promoting Christina Grasso to general manager hotels, events and guest experience, and appointing Jason Alcock as general manager food and beverage.
“Christina and Jason bring tremendous experience and understanding of the hospitality industry to a team determined to enhance our position as the city’s premier hospitality, dining and entertainment precinct,” The Star Sydney chief operating officer, Damian Quayle said.
Grasso has more than 15 years’ experience in the tourism, hospitality, and accommodation sectors. Over the past three years at The Star, she has been instrumental in The Darling Sydney retaining its coveted Forbes Five Star rating while also rolling out the first phase of The Star’s Premium Guest Service Experience Training.
She is also a member of the Accommodation Association of Australia NSW Advisory Board and a passionate advocate for developing long-term careers in hospitality.
“Since commencing with The Star Sydney in 2019 as Director of Hotels, Christina has been an exceptional leader, with an unwavering dedication to delivering guest service excellence across our three hotels – The Darling Sydney, The Star Grand Hotel and The Star Grand Residences,” Quayle said.
Grasso said she was looking forward to expanding her responsibilities across The Star Sydney in her new role.
“While I’ve had the pleasure of working with and learning from extraordinary team members within our hotels, I’m excited to do the same across our events, logistics and retail teams,” Grasso said.
“I’m thrilled with the opportunity to be a role model for other women at The Star – and particularly those in traditionally male-dominated fields.”
Meanwhile, Alcock, who has been with The Star for over a decade, will bring a wealth of local and international experience to the team and his role. He has previously held senior operational positions in the organisation – including executive chef and director food and beverage operations – and was instrumental in establishing The Star Culinary Institute – now one of Australia’s largest privately run apprenticeship programs.
“Our venues are in great hands. Jason is an accomplished and award-winning chef with a passion to attract, train, and build talented hospitality teams,” Quayle said.
After what has been a difficult period for the hospitality industry, Alcock said it was an exciting time for The Star’s venues and the industry as it gets back on its feet.
“With the support of a great team, fresh bar and dining concepts, and an opportunity to leverage the built-up demand of local, domestic and international visitors, I look forward to expanding The Star’s reputation as a world-class foodie and nightlife destination,” Alcock said.