The newly appointed leaders will oversee operations at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands; Capella Bangkok; Capella Hanoi; and the upcoming Capella Taipei (opening in Q1 2025). This move underscores the group’s commitment to nurturing exceptional talent and fostering innovation within the luxury hospitality sector.
Anthony Gill – General Manager, Patina Maldives
Bringing over 20 years of expertise in the luxury hospitality industry, Anthony Gill assumes the role of General Manager at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands. Anthony has an established reputation for revitalizing premium hospitality destinations, notably transforming the Four Seasons Resort Nam Hai in Hoi An, Vietnam. His leadership experience spans several Four Seasons properties in China and Thailand, showcasing his proficiency in international food and beverage management. Under his guidance, Patina Maldives is set to evolve as a transformative luxury destination, delivering unique experiences while preserving its role as a marine sanctuary.
Dennis Laubenstein – General Manager, Capella Taipei
With more than a decade of experience at Capella properties, Dennis Laubenstein transitions to lead Capella Taipei, which opens in early 2025. His previous roles at Capella Singapore, Capella Tufu Bay, and most recently Capella Hanoi, highlight his ability to create bespoke guest experiences rooted in local culture and innovation. Dennis played a key role in securing Capella Hanoi’s first Michelin star and positioning its cocktail bar, The Hudson Rooms, among Asia’s 100 Best Bars in 2024. At Capella Taipei, he plans to elevate its culinary offerings to new heights, solidifying its reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality.
Antonio Saponara – General Manager, Capella Bangkok
After a successful tenure as General Manager at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, Antonio Saponara steps into the leadership role at Capella Bangkok. Antonio’s tenure at Patina Maldives was defined by a focus on exceptional service, sustainable practices, and fostering strong local community connections. His background includes leadership positions at Bulgari Hotels & Resorts in Moscow and Beijing, as well as The Ritz-Carlton in Shanghai. With his expertise, Antonio aims to maintain Capella Bangkok’s position as a globally celebrated property, recently named the World’s Best Hotel and Asia’s Best Hotel by World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024.
Hildegard Anzenberger – General Manager, Capella Hanoi
Hildegard Anzenberger joins Capella Hanoi from The Langham in Hefei, China, bringing a wealth of international luxury hospitality experience and a deep familiarity with the Southeast Asian market. Known for her strategic approach, Hildegard has driven sustainability initiatives and operational excellence throughout her career. She is committed to team development and fostering a collaborative culture, earning industry recognition, including the Food and Beverage Stelliers Award in 2017. At Capella Hanoi, she will leverage her expertise to enhance guest satisfaction and strengthen the hotel’s position as a leader in luxury hospitality.
These appointments reflect Capella Hotel Group’s unwavering focus on innovation, excellence, and sustainability as it continues to redefine the standards of luxury hospitality worldwide.
Cristiano Rinaldi, President, Capella Hotel Group, says, “With the strategic appointments of Anthony, Dennis, Antonio and Hildegard, we are reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional luxury experiences across our remarkable destinations in the Maldives, Bangkok, Hanoi and upcoming Taipei. Each of these leaders brings a unique perspective that we value greatly and a proven track record of innovation, from championing sustainability and elevating culinary offerings to redefining guest experiences. Their collective expertise will propel our Capella and Patina brands even further, realising our shared vision of transforming each destination into the most bespoke or transformative journey for every guest that we welcome through our doors.”
Tags: Asia, Maldives, Dennis Laubenstein, Capella Taipei, Antonio Saponara, Capella Bangkok, Cristiano Rinaldi, Capella Hotel Group
