AccorHotels has named Sami Nasser and Marc Descrozaille as COO’s, respectively, of Middle East and Africa, with both based out of Dubai.Nasser was previously COO, luxury brands, Middle East for AccorHotels and will now oversee 125 open hotels and 50 in the pipeline across all brands. He brings over 25 years of experience, having held roles with FRHI Hotels & Resorts and others. Descrozaille joins AccorHotels from Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, where he served as president for the Middle East and Africa, overseeing over 50hotels. With his new position, he will be responsible for over 105 operational hotels and 65 hotels in the pipeline across all of AccorHotels’ signature brands in the Gulf (excluding Saudi Arabia) and sub-Saharan Africa. He brings more than 20 years of experience with hospitality companies including Radisson Hotels Group, Hilton Hotels and the Savoy Group.

Carlson Wagonlit Travel has appointed Derek Sharp as managing director of CWT Meetings & Events, based in London. He has been senior vice president of Travelport’s Air Commerce line of business and previously held positions with HP Enterprise Services, EDS, UPS and Bain &Company.

American Airlines has promoted Ron DeFeo to senior vice president of global engagement. He had been vice president of global communications for the airline. Prior to joining American, DeFeo was with Home Depot and Darden Restaurants.

GoldSpring Consulting, a business travel and meetings consultancy, has promoted Kevin Iwamoto to senior vice president. His expanded responsibilities will include business development, marketing and strategic industry alliances. Iwamato previously served as vice president at Lanyon and he has also worked at Hewlett-Packard and The Walt Disney Company. He is a former president of the Global Business Travel Association.