Graf is new GM of Hyatt Regency Saipan

Simon Graf took the helm as general manager of Hyatt Regency Saipan beginning last Feb. 15. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Hyatt Regency Saipan opened its doors to Simon Graf who stepped in as the new general manager of the resort last Feb. 15. 

Graf, a native Berliner, has been with Hyatt for over 20 years, including stints in Germany, China, South Korea, and Vietnam. 

He is now ready to take on his role here at Micro Beach with passion on all levels to lead the hotel as the remaining number one in the hospitality landscape along the CNMI.

Graf, considered a “Hyatt home-grown” has dedicated his life toward the hotel industry, particularly at five different Hyatt brands. He is experienced and knowledgeable of every function related to the operation like the back of his hand. After graduating with a degree in Hotel Management from Hotelfachschule Berlin, Graf joined the Hyatt family as a night cashier at Grand Hyatt Berlin in 2002.

For 17 years, Graf’s hotel career kept evolving as he took part in front office, rooms and management roles at Grand Hyatt Berlin, Hyatt Regency Hangzhou, Andaz Xintiandi Shanghai, Park Hyatt Sanya Sunny Bay Resort, and Grand Hyatt Incheon.

His first assignment as a general manager was at Nam Nghi Phu Quoc, Part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in 2019. His talent wasn’t just confined there as Graf worked on multiple projects alongside the Hyatt Hub in Hong Kong, one of which he was involved in the roll-out of Asia’s hygiene standards. He was also instrumental in the creation of in-house standards such as the “Rooms Top 20” and “Rooms Top 20 Hygiene” fundamentals and other regional guiding disciplines. 

In 2021, he was named general manager of the prestigious Park Hyatt Busan in South Korea, also known as Asia’s largest Park Hyatt hotel by guest room count. During his free time, Graf enjoys strolling through cities and exploring modern art galleries and design museums whenever possible.

“I’ve been watching on repeat the show ‘Pretend It’s a City’ a show with Fran Lebowitz and Martin Scorsese. Her stories make me laugh every time,” he said.

The beginning of 2023 proves to be exciting for Graf as he anchors himself in the CNMI and starts the wheels moving with the hotel’s renovation plans in tow. “I am looking forward to being a part of the legendary Hyatt Regency Saipan. It will be a key moment in the resort’s history as plans are being put together for a full renovation,” he said. (PR)