Simon Casson is set to step down from his role as CEO of Corinthia Hotels after two years, with the transition taking effect from April 2026.
Corinthia Hotels said the decision was taken “at his request” and confirmed Casson will remain with the company in a new role as senior strategic advisor to Corinthia Group CEO Simon Naudi and the board of directors.
Casson joined Corinthia Hotels in 2024, bringing more than three decades of experience from Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. His appointment formed part of a wider leadership reshuffle, which saw Simon Naudi promoted to group CEO and managing director to oversee the broader portfolio of International Hotel Investments plc, Corinthia Hotels’ parent company, and to focus on future development.
During his tenure, Casson played a key role in strengthening Corinthia Hotels’ leadership and operational structure, as well as advancing major openings and partnerships. These included the launch of the brand’s first US property, The Surrey in New York – a milestone that marked a significant step in Corinthia’s international expansion strategy.
Announcing his departure on LinkedIn, Casson described the last two years as a period of “foundational, transformational and genuinely fun work,” citing progress in building the company’s team and structure, opening new hotels, signing deals and repositioning the brand’s luxury narrative.
“After two years of foundational, transformational and genuinely fun work, building the team and structure, opening iconic new hotels, signing exciting deals and positively repositioning the brand’s energy and luxury narrative, I decided for varying reasons both personal and professional, that I was approaching the right moment to step down from my role as full-time CEO of Corinthia Hotels,” he said.
Casson added that following discussions with the company, he was invited to continue supporting the brand as senior strategic advisor from April.
“There truly is a time for everything and this feels like the right moment to make a conscious mindful shift – an investment in myself, my time, my family and a more balanced life journey,” he said. “Creating space to embrace new and interesting experiences feels affirmative, timely and comfortably right.”
Corinthia Hotels said Casson will “continue to support Corinthia’s long-term strategic priorities and future growth initiatives” in his new capacity.
In a statement, the company added: “The Board extends its gratitude to Simon for his contributions and leadership and looks forward to his ongoing involvement as the company enters its next chapter.”
