IHG Hotels & Resorts has appointed Michael Hoe Knudsen managing director for Mexico, Latin America & the Caribbean, following the retirement of longstanding former region leader Jorge Apaez.
Knudsen began his IHG career in 1996 at the InterContinental New York Barclay hotel and has since held leadership positions with IHG spanning hotel and corporate roles across the U.S., Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina and Jamaica. Most recently, he was based in the company’s Greater China region where he oversaw 120 managed hotels and 45 openings across China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau.
“Michael’s appointment comes at an important moment for our MLAC business,” Jolyon Bulley, Americas CEO, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said in a statement. “With deep roots in the region and brands that have helped shape modern hospitality across these markets for decades, IHG is well positioned for its next phase of growth. I’m confident Michael will build on this strong foundation and accelerate momentum across one of our most important regions.”
“Returning to MLAC is an honor—as one of IHG’s largest markets, the region holds tremendous opportunity,” Knudsen said. “I look forward to leading the next chapter of our success, supported by our talented colleagues, anchored in strong owner relationships and driven by successful brands backed by IHG’s powerful enterprise.”
IHG’s current system size in the MLAC region comprises 295 open hotels and a pipeline of 104 hotels in development as of Q4 2025.